Food Allergies and Allergy Symptoms

By: Lisa Bower

There are a great many food allergy symptoms, but if you know what to look for, you can find treatment as soon as possible. Additionally, if you think you have food allergies, it's important to know what the symptoms are for when you get yourself a test for food allergies. Food allergy reactions vary depending on the person. They can vary both in intensity and in the time they appear.

One of the most common symptoms of food allergies is if your skin reacts after you eat a specific kind of food. Food allergy reactions range from everything rashes to hives. Additionally, you could feel as if your mouth is itchy or tingling.

Another sign you may have a food allergy is gastrointestinal problems. This includes everything from nausea to vomiting. If you find that you have diarrhea after eating certain foods, this is another symptom that you have a food allergy. General abdominal pain is another symptom to watch out for.

There are some symptoms that usually occur along with the aforementioned signs, but you should take note of them so you can tell your doctor if they occur. Sneezing, a runny nose and shortness of breath are just some of these symptoms.

For some people, symptoms can be minor and for other people, a symptom could mean serious health complications or death. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction to food that involves the airways becoming constricted. If your throat starts to swell or feels itchy, it could mean that you are about to go into shock or may not be able to breathe.

It's important to take note of the specific kinds of reactions you have to certain foods. This can help your doctor decide on treatment on tests like the food allergies blood test. Once you know what's causing your reactions, you can either receive treatment or learn to avoid such foods. 

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Following a list of common food allegies can help you prepare foods for someone with food allergies or other special eating needs. It's still important to always read food labels. Since allergies and intolerances are quite variable, it's best to ask your guests about their specific restrictions before you start planning a dinner menu.

Before you swear off chocolate forever, take a moment. What seems like a chocolate allergy could be something altogether different.

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