Today, nearly 32 million Americans are estimated to have food allergies. These conditions cause an adverse immune system response when individuals are exposed to or consume a certain substance. While the severity of this reaction can vary, it can put lives in danger when not properly treated. That’s why you need to know what your food allergy risk is and how to manage it with help from a trusted physician.

What Are the Most Common Food Allergies?

There are more than 170 documented ingredients that can trigger varying degrees of allergic reactions. In the United States, the most common food allergens include peanuts, eggs, dairy, soy, seafood, and wheat.

What Are the Symptoms?

Ranging from aggravating to dangerous, food allergy symptoms can include skin irritation and itching, swelling, breathing problems, dizziness, abdominal pain, and digestive distress. In severe cases, individuals might experience anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that occurs when airways close up.

If you have mild symptoms, such as temporary rashes or nausea, you can usually see your general physician for care. However, if your symptoms worsen, your throat swells, or you have trouble breathing, call 911 for emergency care.

How Do Physicians Diagnose Food Allergies?

Sometimes, a physician can pinpoint your sensitivities by reviewing the foods you eat and identifying which ones cause symptoms. However, doctors also commonly use skin and blood tests to determine which specific allergens can trigger a flare-up.

What Can You Do to Avoid Flare-Ups?

Once you’ve identified your sensitivities, the best way to prevent flare-ups is to avoid the food altogether, such as by carefully inspecting all ingredient labels. When dining out, always inform the restaurant about the ingredients you can’t eat. Parents of children with food allergies should make schools and teachers aware of the problem so they can avoid bringing certain substances into the classroom.

You also need to be prepared for flare-ups if they do occur. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to respond to symptoms, such as by taking an antihistamine or using an emergency epinephrine injector.

If you’re concerned about food allergies, Kona-Kohala Health Care Services is here to help. Offering comprehensive medical services to patients on the Big Island, board-certified primary care physicians Dr. Donald Nikaitani and Dr. Richard Pekala will provide testing to identify sensitivities. For more details on their services, visit the Kailua-Kona practice online. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 329-1346.