Eating is always great and who would not love not to eat when the foods are very tempting. Unfortunately, not all the people in this world have been blessed with a healthy immune system.
Allergies occur when the immune system react to a very small amount of the allergen. Moreover, food allergy is one of the most common allergies that affect the majority of populations. Food allergies are significantly dangerous and potentially life threatening, especially when it already compromises the respiratory system.
The foods that usually causes allergies are:
- soy
- milk
- tree
- eggs
- fish
- nuts
- wheat
- Shellfish
While other people who have an over reactive immune system could have those foods in a small some amount, there are some who could not tolerate even a single bite because it immediately triggers an allergic reaction in their body.
Food Allergy Symptoms
The body’s response to the allergy varies from mild to severe. Mild symptoms usually disappear quickly and naturally. While for severe symptoms, an immediate appointment with a medical care professional is highly recommended.
Mild Symptoms
- swelling
- rash
- diarrhea
- redness
- sneezing
- stuffy or runny nose
- stomach pain or cramps
- itchy or watery eyes
Severe Symptoms
- breathing difficulty and wheezing
- swelling of the mouth and throat
- hives
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- anaphylaxis ( A life-threatening systemic body reaction that could send the body into shock.)
Diagnosis
History taking and physical examinations are the initial ways to evaluate the condition. There are also several tests that conducted to specifically identify the food culprit of the allergy.
Some of the tests are:
- Trial elimination diet
- Skin prick test
- Blood test
- Oral food challenge
Treatment
Prevention is always better than cure. Whenever, you already notice re-occurring annoying symptoms after eating particular foods, it is better to avoid it. Actually, there are no high quality studies to support a specific treatment to various types of allergies. However, diet modification could be a way to get rid of attacks. Steroid therapy could also calm an over reactive immune system under a physician prescription.
Moreover, over the counter antihistamines could also alleviate the symptoms. Severe allergic attacks necessitate immediate referral to a nearest health facility.
