Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance. Seasonal allergies, often triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, typically affect the respiratory system. Food allergies involve an immune response to specific proteins found in certain foods. Both allergy types impact quality of life, but food allergies may lead to severe, life-threatening reactions, making proper identification and management invaluable for health. Here’s more information on food allergies and when to visit a specialist for them:
Common Food Allergies
A food allergy is a recurring adverse health effect arising from a specific immune response due to a specific food. A true food allergy is different from a food intolerance, which does not involve the immune system, but rather the digestive system. Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a protein in a food as a threat. The body releases chemicals, like histamines, in response, which cause allergy symptoms.
The reasons why some individuals develop allergies while others do not are complex and may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For some people, allergic reactions can be mild, but for others, they can be quite severe. Someone can be allergic to any food, but a small number of foods account for the majority of allergic reactions. The most common food allergens include:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Tree Nuts
- Soy
- Wheat
- Fish & Crustacean Shellfish
These foods are responsible for about 90 percent of all food-related allergic reactions.
Diagnosing Allergies
If you or your loved one experiences symptoms like hives, swelling, vomiting, or breathing difficulties shortly after eating a particular food, you may need to visit the hospital. For mild cases, a primary care physician may be the first point of contact, but they will likely refer you to an allergist for specialized testing and diagnosis. An allergist is a physician specially trained to diagnose, treat, and manage allergies and asthma. You should seek out a specialist if:
- Symptoms Are Recurrent With a Specific Food
- If a Reaction Is Severe
- If You’re Uncertain About the Cause of Symptoms
An allergist can perform tests, such as skin-prick tests or blood tests, to accurately identify the problematic food, and they can also rule out other conditions that may mimic a food allergy. Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective allergy management.
Managing Allergies
Once a food allergy is diagnosed, management focuses on preventing future reactions and being prepared for emergencies. An allergist will work with you to create a comprehensive management plan tailored to your specific needs. The primary strategy for managing a food allergy is strict avoidance of the allergen. This involves carefully reading food labels, communicating your allergy clearly when dining out, and being aware of potential cross-contamination risks. Avoidance requires constant vigilance, but it is a key component of staying safe.
For individuals at risk of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, an allergist will often prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector. This is a life-saving device that must be carried at all times, and you and your family members should be trained on how to use it correctly. Another potential treatment is oral immunotherapy (OIT), which involves consuming gradually increasing amounts of the allergen under medical supervision to build tolerance. This treatment is not suitable for everyone and must be discussed with a specialist.
Learn More About Food Allergies
Understanding when to seek professional medical evaluation is a key step for anyone who suspects they have a food allergy. Navigating allergy concerns can be challenging, but specialized care is available to support your health. If you suspect a food allergy, contact an allergist for a consultation today. Working with a specialist helps you stay proactive about your health and learn personalized ways to manage an allergy.
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