According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the term "food allergy" refers to a specific abnormal response from the immune system. The body produces an allergic antibody to a specific food, like peanuts or milk. Allergic reactions can cause mild to severe medical conditions and can, in some cases, be fatal. According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 4 percent of American adults suffer from food allergies.
Treatment Summary
Treatments are designed based on the severity of the allergic reaction. There are over-the-counter medications for mild allergic reactions like hives. For severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, medical professionals can administer various drugs like epinephrine. According to the Mayo Clinic, prevention is the key to all treatments. Avoid the foods that trigger the allergic reactions.
Allergy Shots
Allergy shots can possibly assist the body in building up tolerance towards the food that causes the allergic reaction. These shots contain very small traces of the food that trigger the allergic reactions. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, these allergy shots aren't as effective in treating or preventing food allergies as other treatments.
Non-Emergency Treatments
Common non-emergency related symptoms to food allergies are itching and hives. Over-the-counter medications like Benadryl can treat these minor symptoms, but can't treat severe reactions. In addition to these over-the-counter meds, individuals may treat these minor symptoms by taking cold showers, wearing clothing that doesn't irritate the skin and using calamine lotion.
Emergency Treatments
Immediate medical attention is required for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis or swelling of the tongue and throat. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that causes breathing impairments due to swelling of tissue and loss of consciousness. Medical professionals typically treat severe allergic reactions with drugs like epinephrine which opens airways and improves blood pressure. In addition to emergency medications, oxygen may be given to ensure the individual is getting enough oxygen in the body.
Prevention
Once a food allergy is identified, it's strongly recommended that individuals avoid the foods that they are allergic to. Make sure to read ingredients on the food labels to avoid any possible reactions.
