The Most Common Food Allergy Questions & Answers

A surprising number of American families live with food allergies, and this condition continues to become more common. Diagnosis and treatment from a well-qualified, reputable allergist remains the best way for children and adults to alleviate their symptoms and have clear, organized plans in the event of emergencies such as anaphylaxis. Good knowledge about food allergies leads to safety and better health outcomes, so let’s answer some questions.

What Are Frequently Asked Food Allergy Questions?

Food allergies raise many questions, especially since food is an absolutely necessary part of life. It’s more than just fuel for the body—food can play a significant part in cultural life or spiritual practice. This condition can affect anyone, but with food allergies affecting children more than adults, it is imperative that family and community members are aware of and understand symptoms, for everyone’s safety.

To help your family understand the basics of food allergies, the following are answers to the most common questions our practice receives about this issue.

What are the health risks of food allergies?

The health risks of food allergies can range from mild stomach discomfort and skin irritation to life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis. With the need for vigilant avoidance, some people may understandably develop anxiety.

What are food allergies, and how do they develop?

Food allergies occur when the body mistakes certain food proteins as a threat, causing the immune system to over-respond and create symptoms. They develop when the body becomes sensitive to specific food triggers.

What are the symptoms of a food allergy?

The symptoms of food allergies include mouth tingling, facial swelling, upset stomach, gas or bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin, hives, lightheadedness, dizziness, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. Note that symptom severity can change over time.

Why do some people develop food allergies later in life?

Some people develop food allergies later in life because a person’s immune system is ever-changing. You can develop sensitivity to the proteins in foods you once enjoyed without issue. External factors like environmental changes or moves can also bring on late-developing food allergies.

How do you build an immunity to food allergies?

Rather than building an immunity to food allergies, allergists use desensitization therapies that help patients develop a tolerance to the offending foods. Over time, this may allow some patients to enjoy the problem foods once more.

How are food allergies diagnosed?

Food allergies are diagnosed using food allergy tests conducted by a board-certified allergist. This is the best and safest way to determine specific allergens. Food allergy testing includes blood tests, skin-prick tests, as well as the oral food challenge.

Are food allergies different from food intolerances?

Yes, food allergies are different from food intolerances. Allergies involve an immune system sensitivity to proteins, while an intolerance is the result of digestive distress in response to certain foods.

How does food allergy testing work?

In blood tests, the body’s antibody response to an allergen is measured. For skin-prick tests, extracts of potential allergens are placed on the skin to observe reactions.

How are food allergies treated?

Food allergies are treated in multiple ways, including avoidance and medical interventions like oral immunotherapy (OIT) or food allergy drops, also known as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).

What is oral immunotherapy?

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is used to help patients develop tolerance, and is also known as food allergy desensitization. It involves consuming gradually increasing doses of an allergen until a maintenance level is achieved under the direction of an allergist.

Find Personalized Food Allergy Relief for Your Family

Individuals and families have relied on diagnosis and treatment at TexasAllergyMD to reduce food anxiety and receive quality, individualized care for more than a decade. A customized food allergy treatment plan helps you manage your symptoms safely and regain your joy associated with food. Call us today at (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment.

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"Dr. Mireku and her staff have really helped me with my allergies. I have started allergy injections and have seen improvements."

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The Most Common Food Allergy Questions & Answers

What Are Frequently Asked Food Allergy Questions?

What are the health risks of food allergies?