Food Allergy
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Food allergy is a common problem that affects children more often than adults. It is estimated that 6-8 % of children and 1-2% of adults have true food allergy. However, surveys show that 25% of the population believes they have food allergy. The reason for the discrepancy is that the general population frequently calls any problem associated with food a “food allergy,” but in medical terms there are strict criteria that have to be met.
Food can cause symptoms for several reasons and food allergy is only one of them.
Non-allergic causes of food-related symptoms include:
- Enzyme deficiency such as lactose intolerance that can cause symptoms of nausea, abdominal distension, and diarrhea with dairy products.
- Food poisoning with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Irritant effect of foods (e.g., spicy foods)
The common symptoms of true food allergy are hives, lip or tongue swelling, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Food allergy can lead to life threatening reactions such as tongue or throat swelling, difficulty swallowing, cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and even fatal anaphylaxis (shock).
How do you find out if my food-related symptoms are allergic or not?
The diagnosis is made by a detailed history of the episode(s), a focused physical examination, food testing, and studying a food diary that you are asked to keep.
How are food allergies treated?
The mainstay of treatment is avoiding the inciting food (even in small amounts). The avoidance must be very strict as subsequent reactions can be life-threatening . The patient must not eat the food or any preparations containing those foods. The habit of carefully reading labels on foods needs to be developed.
Even the most careful patient may inadvertently be exposed to the food in question, and therefore must always carry an antihistamine medication such as Benadryl®, Claritin®, etc. and an epinepherine injection (EpiPen®) for emergencies.
The antihistamine can be used for mild symptoms such as skin itching or hives. While the epinepherine injection is indicated for more severe reactions such as difficulty swallowing or breathing. These medications are a first aid only and not a complete treatment. The antihistamine and Epipen® are first aid only. After taking the medication and/or using the Epipen® use you MUST go the nearest medical facility for further care.
