Food Allergy
What Is a Food Allergy?
Food allergies happen when your immune system misinterprets harmless food proteins as dangerous invaders, causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, or even more severe reactions. This differs from food intolerance, which doesn’t involve the immune system and tends to trigger less severe symptoms. In a city like San Antonio, where culinary traditions run deep, common food allergies are an issue that many locals navigate daily.
If you have a family history of allergies or asthma, you might be at a higher risk of developing food allergies—even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms yet. While ongoing research has led to promising advancements, no medication can completely prevent food allergy symptoms. However, early exposure and oral immunotherapy are being actively studied to help reduce food allergy symptoms and prevent severe reactions.
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Symptoms of Food Allergies
Here’s a list of common food allergy symptoms to be aware of:
Skin Reactions
- Hives: Raised, itchy welts on the skin.
Digestive Issues
- Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick or vomiting after consuming the allergenic food.
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools may occur shortly after eating
Respiratory Problems
- Sneezing: Frequent sneezing or nasal congestion.
- Coughing or Wheezing: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a persistent cough.
Oral Symptoms
- Itching or Swelling: Itching or swelling in the mouth, throat, or lips shortly after eating.
Anaphylaxis
- Severe Reaction: A life-threatening reaction can trigger low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, or fainting. This requires immediate medical attention.
What are the Causes of Food Allergies?
The majority of food allergy cases stem from the "Big 8" allergens, which affect people of all ages:
Peanuts
Tree Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
Milk (cow's milk)
Eggs
Wheat
Soy
Fish (salmon, tuna)
Shellfish(shrimp, crab, lobster)
Food allergies affect up to 3% of adults and 6–8% of children under three. While there is no cure, some children may outgrow their allergies. Early detection and treatment of food allergies are essential to reduce the risk of severe reactions.
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Food Allergy Treatment and Diagnosis
Partnering with a food allergy specialist in San Antonio, TX, can make managing symptoms easier and help prevent future complications. Our specialists will evaluate your eating habits, symptoms, and family history.
If signs of food allergies are identified, they will recommend the best testing methods to pinpoint the cause and guide your care.
How are Food Allergies Treated?
Texans can manage food allergies through a combination of avoidance, medication, and, in some cases, immunotherapy.
1. Avoidance:
Skipping or consistently avoiding allergenic food is the most effective way to manage food allergies. To accomplish this, individuals must read food labels carefully, inquire about ingredients when eating out, and be alert about cross-contamination.
2. Medications:
- Antihistamines can help relieve mild allergy symptoms, such as itching or hives.
- Epinephrine (EpiPen) is the primary treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). People with severe food allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector at all times.
- Oral or nasal corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation or treat more severe symptoms.
3. Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): This treatment requires administering gradually increasing amounts of the allergenic food under medical supervision to desensitize the immune system. It’s a popular choice for food allergies involving peanuts, milk, and eggs.
4. Emergency Action Plan: Patients with food allergies should work with their specialists to develop an action plan for managing accidental exposures, which may include using medications like antihistamines or epinephrine.
5. Education and Support:
Many individuals with food allergies benefit from working with dietitians or allergists to learn how to manage their allergies safely and ensure proper nutrition while avoiding allergens.
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Receive Expert Food Allergy Care
Don’t let food allergies disrupt your life. At Premier Allergy of Texas, our specialists are ready to help you manage allergy symptoms with a plan designed just for you. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward expert care and lasting relief.
