common

Food allergy

A food allergy is an abnormal response to food. The symptoms of the allergic reaction may range from mild to severe. They may include itchiness, swelling of the tongue, vomiting, , hives, trouble breathing, or low blood pressure. This typically occurs within minutes to several hours of exposure. When the symptoms are severe, it is known as anaphylaxis. A food intolerance and food poisoning are separate conditions, not due to an immune response.

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Symptoms — what it feels like

·Itchiness, swelling of the face eyes and tongue, vomiting, , hives, trouble breathing, low blood pressure

Causes — why it happens

· response to food

How it's found

·Based on a medical history, elimination diet, skin prick test, oral food challenge

Prevention

·Early exposure to potential allergens, omalizumab

Treatment

·Avoiding the food in question, having a plan if exposure occurs, medical alert jewelry

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Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.