Some Information on Allergies

• Eight foods account for 90% of the allergic reactions: peanuts, tree nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc), fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy and wheat. Peanuts are the leading cause of severe allergic reactions, followed by shellfish, fish, tree nuts, and eggs,
• Individuals with food allergies and asthma appear to be at an increased risk for severe allergic reactions.
• Food allergies is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting.

What happens in the body during a food-allergic reaction?

The immune system mistakenly believes that a harmless substance, in this case a food item, is harmful. In its attempt to protect the body, it creates specific IgE antibodies to that food. The next time the individual eats that food, the immune system releases massive amounts of chemicals and histamines in order to protect the body. These chemicals trigger a cascade of allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin or cardiovascular system.

What are the common symptoms of a reaction?

Symptoms range from mild to severe. The severe or life-threatening reactions are called "anaphylaxis". Symptoms can include the tingling sensation in the mouth, swelling of the tongue and the throat, difficulty breathing, hives, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. In rare cases, death occurs. Symtoms generally appear within minutes to two hours after the person has eaten the food to which he or she is allergic.

What is the best treatment for food allergy?

Strict avoidance of the allergy-causing food is the only way to avoid a reaction.