Food allergies seem to be more common than ever, but many people have food intolerances not a true allergy.  So what is the difference?  A true food allergy is when the body’s immune system is reacting to a food.  A food intolerance is when the body has a difficult time digesting or breaking down a food.  One of the most common food intolerances is being Lactose intolerant.  The digestive system doesn’t have the enzyme needed to break down dairy products causing the body to have a reaction.  True food allergies can be life threatening, and the complicated symptoms of food allergies should be paid attention too.

What Are Symptoms Of Food Allergies?

The symptoms of food allergies vary with each individual person.  The list of common symptoms of food allergies include hives, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, sneezing, runny noses and even shortness of breathe can be a symptom.  There are other symptoms of food allergies that can be even more severe.  Sometimes only the stomach and the intestinal tract are affected by a food allergy.  In this case, the symptoms of food allergies can be mistaken for a common stomach ache.  Celiac disease is an immune system reaction to certain glutens. Glutens are proteins that are found in wheat and barely.  People with this disease can sometimes go years undiagnosed.  They ignore their pain, not realizing this is one of the symptoms of food allergies.  Many people spend an average of ten years with this pain before being diagnosed. 

The severest reaction a person can have with a food allergy is anaphylaxis.  This is a life threatening reaction, causing many of the bodies systems to respond.  The skin may become itchy, break out in hives or become flushed.  The airway can swell causing the person to have difficulty speaking or breathing.  There can be vomiting or diarrhea.  Even the heart can become affected, causing lowered blood pressure and possibly unconscious.  Immediate medical intervention is needed and a shot of epinephrine can help stop the reaction.

Symptoms of food allergies differ from person to person.  It is important to be aware of changes that occur when certain foods are consumed. If there is a pattern, it is suggested that a visit to board-certified allergist be the next step.  Keeping track of the symptoms of food allergies that have been experienced can assist in determining the correct course of action to avoid serious complications caused by food allergies.