Overview
Food allergy is an immune system reaction to a specific food or a substance in food, mistakenly perceived as harmful. When a person with a food allergy consumes even a small amount of the allergy-causing food, their immune system triggers an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE) to neutralize the allergen. The next time the person eats the food, IgE antibodies recognize it and signal the immune system to release histamine and other chemicals, causing allergy symptoms. Common symptoms of food allergy include digestive problems, hives, itching, swelling of the airways, wheezing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, a reaction called anaphylaxis can occur, which can be life-threatening. Food allergies can be triggered by proteins in various foods such as crustacean shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, chicken eggs, cow's milk, wheat, and soy.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of a food allergy can include:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth
- Hives, itching, or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat, or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion, or trouble breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting In some cases, a food allergy can also cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which may lead to the following symptoms:
- Constriction and tightening of the airways
- A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe
- Shock with a severe drop in blood pressure
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or loss of consciousness If you experience any of these symptoms after eating a certain food, it is important to see your healthcare provider or allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. In case of anaphylaxis, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing food allergy include:
- Family history: If asthma, eczema, hives, or allergies such as hay fever are common in your family, you are at increased risk of food allergies.
- Other allergies: If you already have an allergy to one food, you may be at increased risk of developing an allergy to another. Similarly, having other types of allergic reactions, such as hay fever or eczema, increases your risk of having a food allergy.
- Age: Food allergies are more common in children, especially toddlers and infants. As children grow older, their digestive systems mature, and their bodies are less likely to absorb food or food components that trigger allergies. Fortunately, children typically outgrow allergies to milk, soy, wheat, and eggs. Severe allergies and allergies to nuts and shellfish are more likely to be lifelong.
- Asthma: Asthma and food allergy commonly occur together. When they do, both food allergy and asthma symptoms are more likely to be severe.
Development
Food allergies develop when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or a substance in food as harmful. In response, the immune system produces antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin E (IgE), which target the allergen. The next time the individual consumes even a small amount of the allergenic food, the IgE antibodies recognize it and trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. Common food allergens include crustacean shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, chicken eggs, cow's milk, wheat, and soy. In some cases, food intolerances can also cause adverse reactions, but they are not immune-mediated and are generally less severe than food allergies.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if food allergy is suspected, especially if you experience symptoms such as:
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting These symptoms could indicate a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone you're with experiences these signs, seek emergency treatment right away. It's important to consult your healthcare provider or allergist if you have food allergy symptoms shortly after eating, or if you notice symptoms occurring while you're with your child. This will help your provider make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment or management strategies.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a food allergy, your doctor will consider several factors, including your symptoms, family history of allergies, physical examination, and skin tests. They may also ask about the onset and severity of symptoms, the amount of food consumed, and how the food was prepared. In some cases, your doctor may recommend an elimination diet. Keep in mind that skin tests and blood tests may not be sufficient to confirm a food allergy, and a food challenge may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of food allergy include anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Other complications may include repeated allergic reactions, which can lead to the development of new allergies, and the potential for long-term health issues in severe cases. Additionally, food allergies can impact quality of life, as those with food allergies may need to be very careful about their food choices to avoid allergic reactions.
Treatment
Food allergy is an immune system reaction that can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. While there's no cure for food allergies, some children outgrow them as they get older. The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to know and avoid the triggering foods. Here are some steps to manage food allergies:
- Avoid the allergenic food: The primary treatment for food allergy is to avoid the specific food that causes an allergic reaction. Be sure to read food labels carefully and inform others about your food allergy to prevent accidental exposure.
- Carry an epinephrine autoinjector: If you're at risk of a severe allergic reaction, your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine autoinjector (Adrenaclick, EpiPen) to carry with you at all times. This medication can help alleviate symptoms of a severe reaction.
- Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace: For individuals who have had a severe allergic reaction, wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace can inform others of your allergy in case of an emergency when you're unable to communicate.
- Educate others: Inform friends, family, childcare providers, school personnel, and other adults who regularly interact with you or your child about the food allergy. Emphasize the potential severity of an allergic reaction and the need for immediate action.
- Develop a food allergy action plan: Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan that outlines how to recognize and manage an allergic reaction. Share this plan with your child's school, daycare, and other caregivers. Remember that prevention and management of food allergies involve a combination of avoiding the allergenic food, being aware of potential risks, and having an action plan in place. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for a food allergy, you should:
- Write down your symptoms: Include details about when symptoms started, their severity, and any changes or worsening over time.
- Note your family's history of food allergies: Mention any known food allergies or intolerances in your family, including specific types if applicable.
- List your current medications and supplements: Provide a list of any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking, including doses.
- Inquire about pre-appointment restrictions: Ask your doctor if there are any restrictions before the appointment, such as avoiding certain foods or medications before testing.
- Gather questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor during the appointment, such as asking about alternative food options, school safety measures, or outgrowing the allergy. Remember to be open and honest with your doctor about your symptoms and experiences, as this will help them provide the best possible care and recommendations for your situation.