Food allergy
(Redirected from Food hypersensitivity)
Food allergy is a immune system response that occurs soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can trigger signs and symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swollen airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Food allergy symptoms usually develop within a few minutes to two hours after eating the offending food. The most common food allergy signs and symptoms include:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth
- Hives, itching or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
Causes[edit | edit source]
Food allergies occur when the immune system identifies a certain food as harmful and reacts by producing antibodies known as Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. This reaction can occur systemically (affecting the whole body), or it may be localized to a specific organ or tissue.
Risk Factors[edit | edit source]
While anyone can have a reaction to certain foods, food allergies are more common in people with a family history of allergies or asthma, in children, and in people with atopic dermatitis.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to identify and avoid foods that trigger it. For some people, this is a mere inconvenience, but others find it a greater hardship. Also, some foods — when used as ingredients in certain dishes — may be well-hidden.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The only way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid the foods that cause signs and symptoms. However, despite your best efforts, if you accidentally eat a food that causes an allergic reaction, medications such as antihistamines may reduce your symptoms.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Food allergy Resources | |
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