Spotting the Warning Signs of a Food Allergy
Most food allergies are diagnosed in childhood, but it isn’t uncommon for adults to develop allergies later in life. Because severe allergy reactions can cause serious health complications and even death, you should be able to recognise the signs of a reaction so you can get help or treatment.
The majority of food allergy reactions come from:- Peanuts and other nuts
- Eggs
- Soy
- Cow’s milk
- Wheat
- Fish and shellfish
It is important to recognise the signs of a food allergy so that appropriate actions can be taken to prevent serious harm or injury. If you suspect you have a food allergy but haven’t had a diagnosis, contact your GP to discuss allergy testing. Food allergies usually cause symptoms in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and on the skin.
Food allergies may only cause mild discomfort, whereas others can result in serious reactions that can become fatal These severe reactions, called anaphylaxis, can occur within mere seconds of being exposed to a substance you’re allergic to. This is because anaphylaxis puts your body into shock, causing your blood pressure to rapidly drop, your pulse to become weak, and your airways to narrow. Immediate treatment is required to prevent the reaction from becoming worse.
Warning signs of a food allergy:- Swollen lips, tongue, face, or throat
- Abdominal pain diarrhoea, nausea, or being sick
- Rashes, hives, or itchy skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Reduced heart rate
- Pale or blue skin
The best way to prevent a food allergy reaction is to avoid the substances you are allergic to. If you haven’t been diagnosed and only suspect you have a food allergy, it is important to speak to your GP so they can carry out allergy tests.
People with food allergies have to be extra vigilant when it comes to eating, especially when eating food that hasn’t been prepared by themselves at home. Unfortunately, mistakes happen, which is why many people with food allergies carry medications with them to treat severe reactions.
You can get allergy treatment delivered right to your door from Pharmacy Planet. We have Rhinocort Nasal Spray and Epipen Auto-Injectors available online in the UK at affordable prices.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925