Understanding the allergens that frequently trigger reactions is crucial for people with food allergies. The top nine most common food allergens were identified due to their widespread presence in diets and include milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, and sesame. Each of these allergens can induce various symptoms, and present differently across individuals.
If you live in the Tri-State Area and want to get a food allergy evaluation, book an appointment at our allergy clinic in NYC. We offer same-day comprehensive evaluations and results. Learn more here.
Food allergy symptoms
Skin reactions:
Hives and itching are common skin symptoms associated with food allergies. These reactions often serve as early indicators of an allergic response, particularly in infants.
Gastrointestinal symptoms:
Nausea and vomiting can signal an allergic reaction affecting the digestive system. Gastrointestinal manifestations are a more common presenting symptom of food allergy in infants than older children or adults.
Respiratory symptoms:
Wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and a runny nose are respiratory symptoms that may signify food allergies. These symptoms can vary in severity and may be more pronounced in older children or adults.
Swelling:
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat is a potentially serious symptom and signals the need for immediate attention and intervention.
Low blood pressure:
In the most severe cases of anaphylaxis, an allergic reaction can lead to a drop in blood pressure, which may present with symptoms of lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
What happens when you eat something you’re allergic to?
When you eat a food you’re allergic to, your body responds by releasing inflammatory mediators like histamine, which play a major role in causing allergic symptoms.
IgE-mediated food allergic reactions typically occur within minutes to two hours of ingestion. Immediate treatment (i.e. intramuscular epinephrine) is crucial to prevent anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is variable and unpredictable and can even recur after you’ve taken appropriate treatment. Patients may need more than one dose of epinephrine and should be monitored at a hospital or clinic after a reaction occurs.
Can food allergies change over time?
Food allergies can develop or resolve at any age. Some allergies, like milk and egg, often remit by age 5, others, such as peanut and tree nuts, may persist. Adults can develop new allergies, like shellfish. The severity of symptoms can also change, with factors like exercise, posture, and the amount of food consumed influencing the reaction's intensity.
Living with food allergies can be stressful, requiring constant vigilance and a deep understanding of the allergens at play. Recognizing the symptoms associated with allergic reactions and being well-prepared to manage them can help you feel empowered to take control of your food allergies. Stay informed and stay prepared.
If you live in the Tri-State Area and want to get a food allergy evaluation, book an appointment at our allergy clinic in NYC. We offer same-day comprehensive evaluations and results. Learn more here.
Stay Curious
They say knowledge is power. We couldn’t agree more. Learn about the chronic health condition that affects 50 million Americans every year.
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