Food allergies: understanding and manage

Food allergies: understanding and manage
food allergies: understanding and manage
Food allergies are increasingly common and can significantly impair the life of those affected. Food allergy occurs when a person's immune system sees certain proteins in food and triggers an allergic reaction. These reactions can range from mild symptoms such as rashes and itching to life -threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis. In this article we will look at the various aspects of food allergies, including their causes, diagnosis and dealing with them.
causes of food allergies
Food allergies can have genetic or environmental causes. In some people, food allergies are inherited, which means that they have a family history and are faced with a higher risk of developing an allergy. Other people can develop an allergy in the course of their lives if their immune system is sensitized by repeatedly coming into contact with the allergen.
The most common foods that trigger allergies are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, nuts and peanuts. In some cases, certain fruits such as strawberries or kiwis as well as certain spices such as mustard or celery can cause allergies.
Symptoms of food allergies
The symptoms of food allergies vary depending on the person and the severity of the allergy. You can occur within a few minutes after consuming the allergenic food or only hours later. The most common symptoms are:
1. Skin reactions: itching, rash, swelling or redness of the skin.
2. Digestive problems: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
3. Breasts of breath: sneezing, running nose, cough or shortness of breath.
4. Circuit problems: dizziness, low blood pressure or fainting.
In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur, a potentially life -threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical help. The signs of anaphylaxis are breathing difficulties, swelling of the tongue and throat, strong rashes and a faster, weak pulse.
diagnosis of food allergies
The diagnosis of a food allergy usually requires a thorough examination by an allergist. The doctor will create a detailed medical history to collect information about the symptoms, the frequency of reactions and possible allergic previous illnesses.
In addition, various diagnostic tests can be used to confirm a food allergy. These include:
1. Skin tests: In these tests, small amounts of the suspect allergen are applied to the skin, and the reaction of the immune system is observed. If there is an allergic reaction, the reddening of skin and swelling will be visible in the place of the allergen.
2. Blut tests: These tests measure the amount of specific antibodies that produce the immune system in response to certain allergens. A frequently used blood test is the IGE antibody test.
handling of food allergies
The most effective way to manage food allergies is to avoid the allergenic food. Attention to the list of ingredients of food and a careful selection of food are essential steps. It is also important to be well informed and to know possible cross reactions between different foods. An example of this is an allergy to birch pollen, which is often associated with allergies against certain types of fruit or vegetables.
People with severe allergies should always carry an emergency set with them that contains an epinephrine autoinjector in order to provide immediate help in the event of anaphylaxis. Training on the application of the autoinjector is essential so that it does not waste time in an emergency.
It is also important to inform family, friends, work colleagues and school staff about the allergy, to create a safe environment and to receive support in the event of an allergic reaction.
conclusion
Food allergies are a serious health problem that can have a multifactorial cause. It is important to recognize the symptoms of food allergy, carry out diagnostic tests and avoid allergenic foods to prevent an allergic reaction. Dealing with food allergies requires careful food selection, information and precautionary measures to minimize the risk of complications. It is also important to have a good support system and to keep up to date with new developments in food allergy research.