Roohealthcare.com – Food allergies are triggered by substances called immunoglobulin E (IgE). This type of antibody moves through the bloodstream and attacks allergens, such as peanuts, eggs, and shellfish. The immune system produces IgE in certain cells within the body, including the nasal passages, throat, lungs, digestive tract, and skin. When a person eats an allergen, IgE attaches itself to the surface of the mast cells and sets up an allergic reaction.
Food Allergies Most Common in Children
Food allergies are most common in children, though it is also possible to develop them in adults. Common allergies are usually outgrown, but more severe allergies can lead to lifelong complications, such as asthma or life-threatening anaphylaxis. Some people develop eczema and other skin diseases because of their food allergies.
Most children outgrow their food allergies by the time they reach school age. However, some food allergies persist into adulthood, such as those caused by peanuts and tree nuts. Regardless of the severity of the allergic reaction, doctors can recommend other measures to prevent the allergic reaction in the future. The prevalence of food allergies has increased dramatically over the last 20 years, although deaths due to food allergy reactions are rare.
In adults, food allergies affect around 4 percent of the population. In children, the prevalence of peanut allergy has doubled over the past 10 years. While peanut allergy is often a childhood ailment, food allergies can develop during adulthood and even cause life-threatening anaphylaxis. The symptoms of food allergies can occur suddenly. They may include an itchy rash, throat swelling, low blood pressure, and a variety of other symptoms.
Prescribing Certain Medications to Minimize Symptoms
A doctor can diagnose food allergies by conducting a blood test. This test measures the amount of IgE antibodies that react to foods. The results of this test usually come within a week, but a positive blood test does not necessarily mean that a person has a food allergy. If the allergy is severe, doctors can prescribe certain medicines to minimize the symptoms and even prevent serious reactions.
Another common allergy is egg white. This allergy is often treated with an egg-free diet. However, some people will be able to tolerate cooked eggs after a period of time. Another common food allergy is tree nut allergy, which affects approximately 1% of the population in the U.S. and may affect as many as 3% of people globally.
Causes Food Allergies Due to Genetic Conditions
Some people develop food allergies because of a genetic condition known as celiac disease. This disease affects the small intestine and prevents it from properly absorbing nutrients. Those with this disease may have a history of food allergies, or be more likely to have them. So, there are many different foods and allergens that can cause food allergies.
Most people are allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, and eggs. However, if you’re allergic to peanuts or tree nuts, it may be a good idea to avoid them as much as possible. If a food allergy prevents you from eating certain foods, it’s important to consult a medical doctor as soon as possible. If you wish to send your article to roohealthcare, you can check out this page!
Reference:
Valenta, Rudolf, et al. “Food allergies: the basics.” Gastroenterology 148.6 (2015): 1120-1131.
