Food Allergy
Alternate Names : Allergy to Food
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Food Allergy Treatment
The only proven treatment for a food allergy is to avoid the food! If you suspect you or your child has a food allergy, consult an allergy specialist.
If you have symptoms confined to one area of the body (for example, a hive on the chin after eating the specific food), you may not need any treatment. The symptoms will subside in a brief time. Antihistamines may relieve the discomfort. Soothing skin creams may provide some relief.
If a person develops any type of serious or whole-body reaction (even hives) after eating the offending food, the person should inject the epinephrine, and then go to the nearest hospital or emergency facility, preferably by ambulance. Anyone diagnosed with a food allergy should carry (and know how to use) injectible epinephrine at all times.
THE ORAL ALLERGY SYNDROME
The oral allergy syndrome consists of itching lips, tongue, and throat, and sometimes swollen lips. It occurs after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables. The allergens in these foods are similar to certain pollens. Examples are Melon/Ragweed pollen and Apple/Tree pollen. While people with oral allergy syndrome rarely have an anaphylactic reaction, they should ask their doctor whether they need to carry injectible epinephrine.
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