Did you know that more than 50 million Americans have allergies? It is likely that you or someone you know has a food allergy. A food allergy is when your body mistakenly identifies a specific food or substance in the food as harmful.
Your immune system triggers cells to neutralize the allergy-causing food.
Symptoms vary from person to person when they are experiencing an allergic reaction. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth
- Hives, itching, or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
Some people have a strong response to their allergen that may be life threatening. They may have a reaction called anaphylaxis.
Some signs of anaphylaxis is:
- Constriction and tightening of the airways
- Swollen throat or the feel of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe
- Shock and severely low blood pressure
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness, light-headedness, or loss of consciousness
There are some risk factors that may increase your chance of having a food allergy. They include:
- Family history – if asthma, eczema, hives, or allergies, such as hay fever, are common in your family, you are at an increased risk of having a food allergy.
- Other allergies – if you are already allergic to one food, you may be at a higher risk of being allergic to another.
- Age – food allergies are more common among children. As we get older and our digestive systems mature, our body is less likely to absorb food or food components that cause allergies.
The most common foods for people to have an allergic reaction to are:
- Shellfish (shrimp, lobster, any seafood in a shell)
- Fish
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts (such as walnuts and pecans)
- Eggs
- Dairy milk
- Wheat
- Soy
If you or someone you know has a food allergy, be aware of the allergy when preparing foods or eating at a restaurant. Know the ingredients that are going into your food or drink. When dining out always to be sure to mention food allergies to your server so the chef is aware and can avoid cross contamination with your food allergen.
Talk with your doctor about carrying an epinephrine auto-injector, or EpiPen, with you if you have a severe allergic reaction.
Additional Information & Support
We are here to help you and your family with a wide variety of community resource options. For assistance by phone, or to make an appointment, contact us.
(920) 448-4300 | bc.adrc@browncountywi.gov
