Food allergy

Overview

A food allergy is an immune system response triggered by consuming certain foods. Even minute quantities of allergens can provoke symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. This condition affects approximately 8% of children under 5 years old and up to 4% of adults. While there's no cure, some children may outgrow their allergies with age.

Types of Food allergy

Types of Food Allergies are:

1. Shellfish Allergy: Reactions to crustaceans like shrimp, crab, or lobster.
2. Peanut Allergy: Common and potentially severe, affecting both children and adults.
3. Tree Nut Allergy: Includes allergies to almonds, walnuts, cashews, and others.
4. Milk Allergy: Different from lactose intolerance, a milk allergy involves the immune system.
5. Egg Allergy: Particularly common in children, often outgrown with age.
6. Soy Allergy: Can manifest in various forms, from mild to severe reactions.

Causes of Food allergy

• Genetic Predisposition: Family history plays a significant role.
• Immune System Dysfunction: Overreacts to certain proteins in foods.
• Environmental Factors: Early exposure or lack thereof to certain foods.

Risk Factors of Food allergy

• Family History: Increased risk if family members have allergies.
• Age: Common in children, but adults can develop new allergies.
• Other Allergies: People with existing allergies may be more prone.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to allergens in childhood.

Symptoms of Food allergy

Preventions of Food allergy

To reduce the risk of food allergies:

• Early Introduction: Introduce common allergenic foods to infants gradually.
• Avoidance: For known allergens, read labels carefully and inform caregivers.
• Education: Recognize symptoms and seek prompt medical help if necessary.

Diagnosis of Food allergy

1. Medical History: Detailed inquiry about symptoms and diet.
2. Skin Prick Test: Allergens introduced under the skin to observe reactions.
3. Blood Test: Measures specific antibody levels.
4. Oral Food Challenge: Controlled ingestion under medical supervision.

Treatment for Food allergy

1. Avoidance: Strict avoidance of allergenic foods.
2. Emergency Plan: Carry epinephrine (EpiPen) for severe reactions.
3. Allergen Immunotherapy: Potential treatment for some allergies.
4. Dietary Counseling: Guidance on nutrition and label reading.

When to seek medical attention ?

Seek medical advice:

• After experiencing symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or vomiting post-meal.
• For confirmation and management plans if suspecting a food allergy.