Causes Of Food Allergies

The statistics says that up to three out off every hundred people suffer from food allergies. Its cause is rooted in the immune system. The food we consume contains the allergen substances which trigger an allergic response from the immune system. The immune system reacts to these allergens by launching an attack on the offending proteins in the allergenic foods. The immune system is an amazing configuration of molecules and cells which work hard to defend against foreign bodies and harmful invaders. When a threat is detected by the immune system, antibodies are produced which attack the threatening substance. The war between the antibodies and the offender is what causes the symptoms experienced by allergy sufferers.

Symptoms of food allergies may range from mild to potentially fatal. These symptoms include skin irritations such as hives, rashes or itching. Gastrointestinal discomfort may also be present. The most dangerous reaction is called anaphylaxis which is characterized by rapid onset, difficulty breathing, rash, swelling of the throat and a dramatic drop in blood pressure. If not treated immediately, this condition can be fatal. The most common treatment for anaphylaxis is an injection of adrenaline also called epinephrine. Individuals who know they have severe food allergies usually keep an epinephrine syringe handy in case they accidentally ingest an allergic substance.

There are eight foods recognized by the FDA as the most common offenders when it comes to food allergies. They are eggs, milk, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, tree nuts and peanuts. It is important to understand the differences between tree nuts and peanuts, as well as fish and shellfish. Tree nuts include things like walnuts and almonds. Some people are allergic to peanuts but not tree nuts and vice versa. Shellfish includes clam, crab, oysters and lobster. Fish would include salmon, flounder, tuna and trout. Some people can eat fish without a problem yet are highly allergic to shellfish.

Some people think they have food allergies when actually they have food sensitivity or intolerance. If you experience a reaction to a certain food that is noticeable but not life threatening, write down all the details. What did you eat, when did you eat it, what kind of symptoms did you have and how soon after consumption did they occur. This information should be taken to a certified allergist who can evaluate you for food allergies. Of course, if you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis such as throat swelling, a sudden drop in blood pressure or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.

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