Food allergy

Alternative names:

allergy to food; food hypersensitivity

Treatment:

Treatment varies with the severity and type of symptoms. The goals of treatment are reduction of symptoms and avoidance of future allergic reactions.

Mild or localized symptoms may require no treatment. The symptoms will subside in a brief time. Antihistamines may relieve the discomfort of many symptoms. Soothing skin creams may provide some relief of rashes. Severe symptoms may require treatment with corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone) or epinephrine (adrenalin). Avoiding the offending food is the best way to prevent future allergic reactions.

Expectations (prognosis):

Food allergies may cause symptoms that range from mild abdominal discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. The avoidance of offending foods may be easy if the food is uncommon or easily identified. However, the avoidance of offending foods may involve a severely restricted diet and, in some cases, may result in malnutrition unless nutrients are supplemented. Children may outgrow food allergies.

Complications:

• discomfort
• reduced social interactions with a restricted diet
• anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if the symptoms of allergy develop after eating, particularly if audible wheezing, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms occur.

Go to the emergency room or dial the local emergency number (911) if the symptoms become so severe that your ability to breathe is threatened.