For many people, food allergy symptoms are uncomfortable, but mild. For others, the symptoms are severe and can become life-threatening. Food allergies can also pop up within minutes of eating the food or can take up to a few hours to form. Everyone has a different reaction to food allergies, but there are some symptoms that are more common than others. Knowing what the common symptoms are allows you to identify the allergic reaction and helps you get the treatment you need quickly.
Skin Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms experienced with food allergies is a topical rash. Raised, red, itchy, bumps known as hives, are very common with food allergies. An eczema rash may also be experienced. The skin will become red, scaly and itchy. The skin will also feel tight and stretched out. Swelling may also occur on the skin and even inside the mouth. The face, elbows and knees are the most common areas that the food allergy skin rash develops.
Digestive Symptoms
Since the food we consume travels to the digestive tract, common symptoms from food allergies will form here. Nausea, diarrhea, sharp abdominal pains and vomiting are all very common with food allergies. They range from mild to severe and can lead to other ailments including dehydration.
Respiratory Symptoms
Respiratory problems often occur from food allergies. Wheezing, coughing and runny nose may be experienced if the food allergy is mild. If you are having a severe reaction to the allergen, the symptoms will become more serious. The severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, tightening of airways and anaphalytic shock. If any of these symptoms are experienced, medical attention is needed immediately.
Common Food Allergens
There are many common food allergens that will cause the symptoms to form. Some people will have a mild reaction to one or two of the allergens, others will have a severe sensitivity to one or more. Peanuts, shellfish, wheat, milk and eggs are the most common culprits when it comes to food allergies. Corn, soy, sugar and strawberries are also common especially among children. Knowing what can trigger the reaction is important for treating the symptoms and preventing them from occurring in the future.
