Food Allergies Defined
Have you had your body react severely to eating peanuts or other foods? The cause could be food allergies. When the body responds immunologically to proteins in food this could be a food allergy. Sometimes the reaction can be minor and other times as in the case of anaphylaxis the result could be death.
The body’s response to food allergies can be varied and it can affect different body systems. For example, one’s digestive system can cause a person to experience cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. These symptoms can be similar to other problems such as irritable bowel syndrome or Lactose Intolerance, so it is very important to be diagnosed properly so that you receive the correct treatment.
Food allergies may manifest as runny nose, scratchy throat, coughing, sneezing, or wheezing in the respiratory system. Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing may be experienced in more severe reactions. It is strongly recommended that you seek medical attention immediately in the case of more severe reactions.
Food allergies can result in reactions in the skin. Hives and eczema, itching in the membranes of the throat, eyes, mouth and skin can occur. More severe reactions such as swelling of the face, tongue, lips or face must be treated immediately since airway restriction could occur.
Food allergies can affect your nervous system resulting in mood swings and depression.
Most food allergies are classified as a Immunoglobulin E (IgE) response. This means that antibodies are produced in the body that attack non-disease causing substances which in the case of food allergies is the proteins found in certain foods. Many folks are predisposed to this type of immune response. When the food passes into the digestive tract the body releases IgE which also causes other chemicals such as histamines to be released. This causes swelling and in the case of the digestive tract this will appear as an upset stomach.
Skin prick and blood tests are some of the tests an allergist would use to diagnose the allergy. In addition, the allergist will review your history of reactions.
The skin prick test introduces a small amount of the allergy causing substance into the skin. The allergist then looks for a reaction. For the blood test the level of IgE antibodies is measured. Certain levels are generally considered normal and higher levels may indicate that a person is having an allergic reaction.
So what can be done? There is no cure for food allergies. Avoidance is what is recommended. There are many labels on foods and in restaurants that state that there are certain kinds of potential food allergens either in the food or around the food. If a person has severe reactions they may be prescribed an Epipen which administers epinephrine which can halt the allergic reaction.
 | US $15.00 End Date: Tuesday Jan-06-2009 20:36:58 PST Buy It Now for only: US $15.00 Buy it now | Add to watch list |
