Symptoms and Management of Food Allergies

Food allergies stem from an adverse immune response to proteins found in certain foods. The common symptoms vary widely but the most frequently noticed include itching or swelling of the mouth, hives, eczema, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis which is a potentially life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing and send the body into shock.

Managing food allergies involves avoiding known allergens, being prepared to treat allergic reactions which include having medications such as antihistamines and epinephrine available, and wearing allergy alert jewelry. Awareness and education are also crucial in managing food allergies effectively, both for the individual and for public entities such as schools and restaurants.