Normally, your body's immune system defends against potentially harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins,In some people, an immune response is triggered by a substance that is generally harmless, such as a specific food.
The cause of food allergies is related to your body making a type of allergy-producing substance called immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies a particular food.
Although many people have a food intolerance, food allergies are less common. In a true food allergy, the immune system produces antibodies and histamine in response to the specific food.
Any food can cause an allergy, but a few foods are the main culprits. In children, the most common food allergies are to:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Peanuts
- Shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster, snails, clams)
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
Treatment
The only proven treatment for a food allergy is to avoid the food. If you suspect you or your child has a food allergy, consult an allergy specialist.
If you have symptoms on only one area of the body (for example, a hive on the chin after eating the specific food), you may not need any treatment. The symptoms will likely go away in a brief time. Anti-Histamines may relieve the discomfort. Soothing skin creams may provide some relief.
Consult your doctor if you think you have had an allergic reaction to food, even if it is only a local reaction.
