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For those whose immune systems overreact to proteins found in certain foods, some food allergy symptoms can be life-threatening. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 26 million adults in the US exhibit food allergies.
While many adults realize food intolerances they may have, recognizing an actual food allergy is key. The NIH findings indicate that adults who suspect they have a food allergy should undergo testing to pinpoint their true allergy triggers. Often allergies present in adulthood or change over the years, so initial allergy testing results done as children may not reflect the whole picture.
After going into anaphylaxis upon eating a piece of chocolate, Kristi Trimmer was diagnosed with a soy allergy.
“At the hospital, they did a battery of tests and came back with a severe allergic reaction to soy,” the artist and blogger told Mom.com. Trimmer can testify to the importance of determining exactly what triggers certain food allergies. “Three years ago, I was given another soy test and found that wasn’t the primary allergen. I’m allergic to every tree on the planet.”
Food allergy symptoms to be aware of
It’s often easy to recognize food allergy symptoms when they occur because they typically start within the first two hours of eating a triggering food. Some allergy symptoms to be aware of include rash, swelling, and itching or tingling of the mouth or tongue. Food allergies can also cause stomach pain, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.
Anitra Durand Allen told Mom.com that her food allergy responses have gotten worse over the years and her triggers have increased. “My first severe reaction was my tongue swelling and burning. After that, I became more aware of the signs: itching and fullness in the ears, breakouts, and hives, minimal tightness in my chest,” she said.
“Now my allergies are airborne and I experience all those symptoms just from smelling the food to which I am allergic,” the mom of three lamented.
As we age, our bodies undergo a wide variety of changes. The responsibilities and demands that come with daily adult life can wreak havoc and can cause stress. The NIH suggests that as we age and undergo stressful situations, that stress can release hormones and molecules like histamines. These can lead to allergy symptoms. This could be one reason why allergy responses can become more severe with age.
What are some common food allergies?
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the most common food allergies include dairy, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, and wheat.
It is important to note that there is a difference between food allergies and food intolerances. A person with a food intolerance may be able to eat small quantities of the triggering food. They can take precautions to prevent or minimize reaction symptoms. Food intolerance symptoms often present as mild, digestive issues. A food allergy however, will often trigger an immune system response that could be life-threatening.
My decision a few years ago to limit my consumption of dairy was based on how I felt when I ate certain foods. It wasn’t until recently that I realized I am lactose intolerant. My experience, however, is vastly different from what those with a severe milk allergy experience.
What to do if you suspect you have a food allergy
If you suspect you have food allergies, consult with your doctor on what steps to take and what tests may be available for you. You can also visit a reputable site and begin to research your symptoms. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology virtual allergist feature will allow you to troubleshoot some initial symptoms. While this is not a substitute for seeing your doctor, it can point you in the right direction, answer some basic questions, and help you find an allergist in your area.
Mom Lisa Bayorek realized that her allergy to both wheat and oats meant that she would have to significantly change her way of eating. “I love food,” she told Mom.com, “but there it was and I had to adapt. I have tried many gluten-free foods and not all of them are good and a lot are highly processed. Luckily with more education and more companies wanting to help all people enjoy the foods that they love, gluten-free has come a long way.”
For mild food allergy symptoms, many turn to antihistamines. These will help relieve symptoms by reducing histamines and can be easily found over-the-counter. An allergist or immunologist will help you determine whether or not you need a prescription antihistamine.
For life-threatening symptoms like anaphylaxis, breathing treatments may be necessary. Albuterol and oxygen may be used in conjunction with cortisol to improve airway inflammation. In some cases, an auto-injectable device can be used to inject the drug epinephrine. Available under the brand names EpiPen and AUVI-Q, these are life-saving devices.
For Trimmer, whose allergies cause anaphylaxis, extra precautions must be taken. She explained to Mom.com, “I was prescribed a medical alert service animal, as my throat can close at any time, up to three days after I’ve eaten something I’m allergic to. I’m not supposed to walk outside in nature alone, unless I have my dog, Porter.”
Keeping a food journal is an ideal way to track what you eat. You can record symptoms and share them with your healthcare provider when you make an appointment. A food journal is beneficial if you suspect you have a food allergy. Both you and your doctor can determine the best course of action if you have mild symptoms. Should your symptoms be severe, however, it is always important to seek immediate medical care.
