Food Allergy

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Food allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy causing food can trigger signs and symptoms of allergic.The protein in food is the most common allergic component. Allergies occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a protein as harmful. Some proteins or fragments of proteins are resistant to digestion and tagged by the Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These tags fool the immune system into thinking that the protein is an invader. The immune system, thinking the organism is under attack, sends white blood cells to attack, and that triggers an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

• Tingling or itching in mouth
• Hives, itching or eczema
• Swelling of lips, face, tongue and throat or other body parts
• Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting

Causes

• Shellfish, such as shrimp, lobster and crab
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts, such as walnuts and pecans
• Fish
• Eggs
• Milk
• Wheat

Action Plans

• Always read food labels to make sure they don't contain an food allergens. 
• At restaurants and social gatherings, steer clear with the food that may contain allergen.
• Teach the adults who spend time with your child how to recognize signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.
• Talk with your doctor about prescribing emergency epinephrine.