Food Allergy
Food Allergy
A food allergy is an immune response that happens when the body incorrectly identifies a certain food as a threat. The action of the immune system creates a range of symptoms throughout the body. Some people have anaphylactic reactions, which are life-threatening emergencies.
Common Food Allergies
Nearly any food can cause an allergy, but the most common food allergens are:
peanuts
tree nuts
milk
eggs
shellfish
fish
wheat
soy
some fruits and vegetables
Food Allergy Awareness on Halloween
Did you know that one in 13 children have food allergies?
On Halloween and beyond, you can help kids and adults with allergies stay safe. Be informed about common allergens and the signs of an allergic reaction. Do something for yourself by getting tested for food allergies or sensitivities. Also, consider participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween.
The Teal Pumpkin Project
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple way to make Halloween fun for everyone, including kids with food allergies. Put a teal pumpkin outside your home to show that you’re offering safe, non-food treats. You can still offer candy in a separate bowl, too!
Examples of non-food treats include stickers, glow sticks, small toys, bouncy balls, and spooky trinkets. You can buy a teal pumpkin from Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) or make your own.
WellNow Allergy offers asthma testing service at all of our locations:
Call or use our convenient online scheduling to your allergy test today.
Types of Food Allergies
There are three different types of food allergies. Food sensitivities or intolerance will also be discussed.
1) IgE-mediated food allergy:
This is the most common type of food allergy. It occurs when the immune system produces the antibody immunoglobulin E (IgE). Symptoms happen within a few minutes after eating the allergen. Anaphylaxis is more common with this type of reaction.
Symptoms of IgE-mediated food allergy can include:
Hives
Swelling, especially of the face, mouth or throat
Itching or tingling inside the mouth
Trouble swallowing
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Wheezing or shortness of breath
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Itchy eyes
Sneezing
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. This is an emergency that can happen suddenly and worsen rapidly. If you see someone in anaphylaxis, give epinephrine if trained to do so, and call an ambulance immediately.
In addition to the symptoms above, a person in anaphylaxis may have:
Difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking
Chest tightness
Tongue swelling
Dizziness or feeling faint
Collapse
2) Non-IgE-mediated food allergy:
In this type of allergy, immunoglobulin E is not involved. Instead, other immune cells cause the reaction. After eating, it can take several hours or even days for the reaction to develop.
Symptoms of a non-IgE-mediated food allergy include:
Red, itchy skin (but not raised hives)
Eczema
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Abdominal cramps
Colic in babies
3) Mixed IgE-mediated and Non-IgE-mediated food allergies:
In a mixed reaction, a person experiences symptoms from both immunoglobulin E (IgE) and other immune cells.
