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Food Allergies

A food allergy is an adverse immune response to a food protein. They are distinct from other adverse responses to food, such as food intolerance. The protein in the food is the most common allergic component. These kinds of allergies occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a protein as harmful.

Food Allergies Symptoms & Treatments

Of the more than three thousand foods, there is not a single food that has not caused at least one allergic reaction in someone, somewhere. Symptoms vary from hives/welts or urticaria to asthma, eczema, nasal or sinus conditions, ear infections, stomach or intestinal disorders, headaches, migraines, or general malaise.

Major Food Allergens:
• Peanuts
• Soy
• Milk
• Fish
• Wheat
• Gluten
• Tree nuts
• Shellfish
• Eggs
• Sulfites

Food Allergy Symptoms:
• Itching
​• Hives or Eczema
​• Swelling of the lips
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling of the face
• Trouble breathing
• Nasal congestion
• Wheezing
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Cramps and bloating
• Nausea, vomiting

Treatment for Food Allergies:
• Antihistamines
• Avoidance
• Epinephrine
​• Steroids
• Possibility of SLIT (Sub Lingual Immuno Therapy)

SLIT, (Sub Lingual Immuno Therapy)
These are allergy drops administered under the tongue by the patient, at home. Although somewhat less effective than standard allergy shots, this a wonderful alternative for patients who are either afraid of needles or cannot commit to the time involved in going for shots.

Food Allergy Testing & Diagnosis
• Blood test
• Skin tests
• Oral challenge
Most common in children:
• Milk
• Egg
• Peanut
• Corn
• Wheat
• Soy
• Fish
Most common in Adults:
• Shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts

Did you know?

Since January 1, 2006 The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that the labels of foods containing major food allergens declare the allergen in plain ​language on the label.

In the United States, it is estimated that up to twelve million people ​have food allergies

THE VILLAGE Allergy Asthma Immunology Centre

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