Food Allergy : Causes And Symptoms

Food Allergy

When you have a food allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or a substance in food as something harmful. Food allergy is an immune system reaction that happens soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can trigger 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. Do not confuse a food allergy with a much more common reaction known as food intolerance. While bothersome, food intolerance is a less serious condition that does not involve the immune system.

Symptoms of Food Allergy : 

An allergic reaction to a particular food may be uncomfortable but not severe. For other people, an allergic food reaction can be frightening and even life-threatening. Food allergy symptoms usually develop within a few minutes to two hours after eating the offending food. Rarely, symptoms may be delayed for several hours.

The most common food allergy 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.

✓ Belly pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting.

✓ Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.

Causes of food Allergy : 

In response, your immune system triggers cells to release an antibody known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) to neutralize the allergy-causing food or food substance, called an allergen. The next time you eat even the smallest amount of that food, IgE antibodies sense it. They then signal your immune system to release a chemical called histamine, as well as other chemicals, into your bloodstream. These chemicals cause allergy symptoms.

Most food allergies are triggered by certain proteins in :

• Crustacean shellfish, such as shrimp, lobster and crab.

• Peanuts.

• Tree nuts, such as walnuts and pecans.

• Fish.

• Chicken eggs.

• Cow's milk.

• Wheat.

• Soy.

Know about all type of allergies :

• Allergic Asthma 

• Allergy to mold

• Anaphylaxis

• Animal allergy

• Contact dermatitis

• Drug allergy

• Latex allergy

• Seasonal allergies