Once you know the symptoms of a food allergy, it’s important to identify what foods are most likely triggering your reactions. It will help you manage your allergy and stay safe. Silver spring food allergies are very common and range from mild to life-threatening.

Food allergy entails an allergic reaction to a food protein. In children, the most common foods that provoke an allergic response include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds), seafood (shrimp and shellfish), wheat, soybeans, and corn.

Types of food allergies

Some of the types of food allergies include:

  • Immediate food allergy: With this type of allergy, a person experiences an allergic reaction within minutes of eating the food. Symptoms may include swelling, rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, and cramps.
  • Delayed food allergy: This type of allergy can take hours or even days for symptoms to manifest. It can cause joint pain, headaches, tiredness, and digestive issues like diarrhea.
  • Cross-reactivity food allergy: This type of food allergy occurs when a person is allergic to one food but experiences an allergic reaction from another related food. For example, someone allergic to shrimp could also react to lobster or other shellfish.
  • Oral allergy syndrome: A food allergy known as oral allergy syndrome causes burning, tingling, or itching in the mouth. It usually results from consuming uncooked fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Symptoms of food allergy

These are the signs of food allergy you need to know:

  • Hives, itchy rashes, or eczema are the most common allergic reactions. They can be very bothersome and usually last several hours.
  • Swelling: Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat can occur, making breathing difficult.
  • Nausea and vomiting: This is a less common symptom but can occur in some cases.
  • Abdominal pain: This symptom is less common but can sometimes occur.
  • Diarrhea: This symptom is more common in children than adults and usually appears several hours after eating the offending food.
  • Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction): This serious reaction requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include a sudden drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.

If you have any of these symptoms after eating a certain food, it is important to see an allergist for diagnosis and treatment. An allergist can run tests to confirm the allergy and provide guidance on how to avoid the allergen and manage reactions.

The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid foods that trigger it. Be sure to read food labels carefully and ask questions when eating or buying pre-made food. You can safely enjoy meals despite your food allergies with the right precautions.

Some of the common food allergies include:

  • Peanuts: Peanuts are one of the most common allergies, especially in children.
  • Tree nuts: Tree nuts such as walnuts, cashews, almonds, and others can also cause an allergic reaction.
  • Shellfish: Shrimp and other shellfish can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction in some people.
  • Milk: When you are allergic to milk, your body can’t digest lactose and may respond with severe symptoms.
  • Eggs: Egg allergies are common and can cause mild to life-threatening reactions.
  • Wheat: This type of food allergy is more common in adults than children and can cause various symptoms.
  • Soy allergies are also common, especially in infants and young children.

If you suspect a food allergy, it is important to see your allergist at the Allergy & Asthma Clinic of Maryland.