Consult Super-Specialist Doctors at CARE Hospitals
Updated on 19 December 2023
The number of people suffering from food allergies continues to increase in various parts of the world. A food allergy is an abnormal immune response to a food protein that the body mistakes as harmful. When someone with a food allergy consumes that food, their immune system releases antibodies that trigger inflammatory reactions and uncomfortable, or even dangerous, symptoms. While there is no cure for food allergies, they can be managed by avoiding allergy-triggering foods and prompt treatment when accidental exposure occurs.
Common foods that trigger allergies can include:
Food allergic reactions vary from mild to severe and sometimes even fatal. Common food allergy symptoms include:
Symptoms typically begin within minutes to two hours after consuming the problematic food. In rarer cases, the onset of symptoms may be delayed for several hours. However, the same person does not always react in the same way each time they consume the food to which they are allergic.
Food allergies happen when the immune system overreacts to certain food proteins. The immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as harmful and triggers immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to attack them. The next time that food is consumed, the IgE antibodies sense it and signal the release of inflammatory chemicals like histamine. This causes allergy symptoms.
To diagnose a food allergy, doctors will review a person's medical history and symptoms and perform allergy tests. Common diagnostic tests include:
The primary treatment for food allergies is strict avoidance of the problematic food(s). Careful label reading, awareness of cross-contact, and carrying emergency medicine is also crucial. Additional management strategies include:
A number of factors place certain individuals at increased risk of developing food allergies:
Food allergies can potentially cause severe, even fatal, reactions. Potential dangers include:
Consult an allergist promptly if an allergic reaction to food is suspected. The allergist can perform diagnostic tests to identify the food triggers and provide advice on allergen avoidance and emergency preparedness.
Seek emergency help right away if symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, lightheadedness, or swelling of the lips or throat occur after eating. These are signs of anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical treatment and injection of epinephrine.
Research shows that introducing allergenic foods like peanut products early in an infant's diet may help prevent food allergies. After discussing with the child's doctor, try offering such foods in a gradual manner, increasing amounts starting around 4-6 months old.
Those already diagnosed with food allergies can take measures to prevent reactions:
Food allergies are on the rise, but with proper management they can be controlled. Avoidance of trigger foods and prompt treatment of allergic reactions is key. Although promising, immunotherapy treatments to desensitise people or reduce sensitivity remain experimental. With vigilance, those suffering from food allergies can enjoy safer, proper diets and lead better quality of life.
Dr. Ramadevi.D
Senior Dietician, CARE Hospitals
12 Home Remedies to Naturally Lower Your Creatinine Levels
Chronic Pain: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and Treatment
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
22 October 2024
If you cannot find answers to your queries, please fill out the enquiry form or call the number below. We will contact you shortly.