Food Allergies
A food allergy is an immune reaction to a particular food protein. When the protein is digested, it triggers the immune system to release chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. The most common symptoms include itching and swelling of the lips, tongue and throat; difficulty breathing; abdominal pain; diarrhea; hives; and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock.
Food allergies can be deadly, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to know what foods to avoid. If you think you might have a food allergy, it’s important to see a doctor for testing. There are also some steps you can take to minimize your risk of having a reaction, such as carrying epinephrine and avoiding trigger foods.
Types Of Food Allergies
Types of food allergies range from the quite common, such as peanuts, to the much rarer, such as red meat. They can be further categorized by their severity, with some people experiencing only a mild reaction, while others may have a potentially life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Some of the most common food allergens include milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.
However, it is important to note that anyone can develop an allergy to any food at any time in their life. While there is no cure for food allergies, avoiding trigger foods and carrying emergency medication can help to prevent serious reactions. For people with severe allergies, even trace amounts of an allergen can be dangerous. As a result, it is important to always read food labels carefully and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Getting The Right Help
Types of food allergies range from the quite common, such as peanuts, to the much rarer, such as red meat. They can be further categorized by their severity, with some people experiencing only a mild reaction, while others may have a potentially life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Some of the most common food allergens include milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.
However, it is important to note that anyone can develop an allergy to any food at any time in their life. While there is no cure for food allergies, avoiding trigger foods and carrying emergency medication can help to prevent serious reactions. For people with severe allergies, even trace amounts of an allergen can be dangerous. As a result, it is important to always read food labels carefully and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.
