Food Allergy Treatment

Food allergy testing and treatment in New Jersey and Philadelphia.

Evaluation of hives, swelling, digestive symptoms, and breathing reactions.
Identification of food triggers and personalized management plans.
Prevention guidance and emergency-preparedness support.
Same-day or next-day appointments often available.

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Important Medical Notice

The information provided below and throughout this website is presented for general educational purposes only and does NOT constitute professional medical advice. This information is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice and NO material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Recognizing Symptoms of Food Allergies

Food allergy symptoms can affect various systems of the body, including the skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. Reactions can range from mild to severe and may include hives, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. Recognizing the signs of an allergic reaction and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for managing food allergies.

Symptoms of Skin Allergies

Skin allergies associated with food can present as hives, itching, swelling, and redness. These symptoms may appear within minutes to hours after consuming the allergen and can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Respiratory Allergies

Respiratory symptoms of food allergies can include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and nasal congestion. In some cases, respiratory symptoms of food allergies can also lead to a severe and potentially life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can cause swelling in the throat and tongue, making it difficult to breathe, and can also cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Allergies

Gastrointestinal symptoms of food allergies can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating. These symptoms typically occur within a few hours of ingesting the allergen and can vary in severity.

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ALLERGY AWARENESS

Managing the Symptoms of Food Allergies

Managing food allergy symptoms involves avoiding the allergen, and taking medications as needed. Involving healthcare providers and caregivers is also an important part of managing symptoms.

Educate the caregivers about food allergies: what foods to avoid, how to read food labels, and how to recognize and respond to an allergic reaction to ensure the child’s safety.

Treating Food Allergies with Immunotherapy

Allergen-specific immunotherapy, such as oral immunotherapy or sublingual immunotherapy, may be recommended to help desensitize an individual’s immune system. This treatment works by gradually exposing the immune system to small amounts of allergenic food, which can help train the immune system to tolerate the food without triggering an allergic reaction.

Immunotherapy can be a treatment option for some food allergies, such as peanut allergies in children ages 4-17. The FDA-approved oral immunotherapy drug Peanut Allergen Powder-dnfp (Palforzia) can help desensitize children with confirmed peanut allergies, reducing the risk of severe reactions. Immunotherapy should be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

At Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy, we do not administer immunotherapy for food allergies; however, we are happy to assist with helping you find a provider in your network who does.

ALLERGY AWARENESS

The Benefits of Carefully Monitored Diet Changes for Allergy Patients

Diet changes, such as implementing an elimination diet, can help identify specific food triggers and manage food allergy symptoms. Removing suspect foods for 1-2 weeks and then reintroducing them one at a time can help pinpoint the cause of allergic reactions.

Consulting with a healthcare provider or dietitian for guidance on nutritional supplements and creating a balanced diet is essential for those with food allergies.

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Learning Self-Care Strategies to Manage Severe Reactions

Living with food allergies requires developing self-care strategies to manage severe reactions effectively. Connecting with others who have food allergies, educating oneself about their condition, being prepared for emergencies, and creating a safe environment are essential coping mechanisms. Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector and knowing how to use it can be lifesaving during an anaphylactic reaction.

Preventing Food Allergy Episodes

Preventing food allergy episodes involves vigilance in avoiding allergens, reading food labels, and being cautious at restaurants and social gatherings. Cross-reactivity should also be considered, as individuals allergic to specific foods may react to related foods due to similar proteins found in both. For example, individuals allergic to peanuts may also react to other tree nuts or legumes, such as soybeans or lentils.

Always check ingredient labels and be aware of possible cross-contamination risks in food manufacturing facilities. Being aware of potential cross-reactivity can help individuals with food allergies avoid additional triggers and minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Involving caregivers, food allergy testing, and informing them about the child’s food allergies can help prevent allergic reactions.

Treatment Options for Food Allergies

There are various treatment options for food allergies, including medications and the use of epinephrine auto-injectors for a severe allergic reaction. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual.

Medications Used to Treat Food Allergies

Several medications can help manage food allergy symptoms, such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators. Antihistamines block the effects of histamine release which can reduce swelling, itching, and hives, while corticosteroids can help to alleviate inflammation and swelling. Bronchodilators can help ease breathing difficulties by relaxing the airway muscles to improve breathing during an allergic reaction.

Epinephrine Auto-Injector for Severe Reactions

An epinephrine auto-injector is a crucial tool for individuals with severe food allergies, as it can quickly reverse the life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis. This life-saving tool has an expiration date, so keep that in mind. It is essential to carry an epinephrine auto-injector at all times and know how to use it correctly.

The Benefits of Seeking Professional Treatment for Food Allergies

Seeking professional treatment for food allergies can help individuals better understand their condition, identify specific food triggers, and develop an effective management plan. The allergy physicians at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in New Jersey and Philadelphia can provide expert guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. By working with healthcare professionals, individuals with food allergies can improve their quality of life and minimize the risk of severe reactions.

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
About Food Allergy

What are the most common food allergies?

Some of the most common food allergens include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. Being aware of these common allergens and their potential presence in various foods can help individuals with food allergies avoid triggers and minimize the risk of having an allergic reaction.

What is the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance?

A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful and triggers an allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may involve multiple body systems. A food intolerance, on the other hand, is a non-immune system-related response to a specific food or ingredient, often due to an enzyme deficiency. Symptoms of food intolerance are generally less severe and primarily affect the digestive system.

Can food allergies be outgrown?

Some food allergies, particularly those to milk, eggs, and soy, can be outgrown in childhood or adolescence. However, allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish are more likely to be lifelong. Regular follow-ups with an allergist can help determine if an individual has outgrown a food allergy.

How can I ensure I get proper nutrition while avoiding allergens?

Consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can help you develop a balanced and nutritious meal plan while avoiding allergens. They can recommend suitable alternatives and suggest nutritional supplements, if necessary.

What precautions should I take when dining out with a food allergy?

When dining out, inform the restaurant staff about your food allergies and ask about ingredients and food preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination. Choose dishes with simple ingredients and avoid buffet-style dining, as the risk of cross-contamination is higher.

Can I develop a food allergy later in life?

Yes, it is possible to develop a food allergy at any age. Adult-onset food allergies can be triggered by various things, including hormonal changes, infections, or exposure to new foods. If you suspect you have developed a food allergy, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.

How can I prevent accidental exposure to allergens at home?

To prevent accidental exposure to allergens at home, create designated allergy-free zones in your kitchen, use separate utensils and cookware for allergen-free cooking, and store allergenic foods separately from non-allergenic foods. Regularly clean surfaces and appliances to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.