Food Allergies

What are food allergies?
A food allergy is an abnormal response to a food triggered by the body’s immune system. “Food allergy” refers to a particular type of response of the immune system. Allergic reactions to food can cause serious illness and, in some cases, even death. If you believe you have a food allergy, it is extremely important for you to work with your healthcare provider to find out if and what foods cause your allergic reaction.

Common symptoms of food allergies include...
• Tingling or itching in the mouth
• Hives, itching, or eczema
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body
• Wheezing, nasal congestion, or trouble breathing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Anaphylaxis

What are the most common food allergies?
Most food allergies in adults are triggered by...
• Shellfish (shrimp, lobster, crab, etc.)
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
• Fish

Most food allergies in children are triggered by...
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
• Eggs
• Cow’s milk
• Wheat
• Soy

What should you do if you think you have food allergies?
The best way to find out if you have food allergies is to get a food allergy test. Community Health and Wellness offers food allergy testing for 28 of the most common food allergies.

We offer allergy skin testing to help determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Allergy skin testing is a pain-free, fast, and effective way to identify allergies. Scheduling an appointment is the first step towards understanding and managing your food allergies.

What’s next?
Understanding and managing food allergies starts with an allergy test. To find out more and to schedule your allergy test call us at 860-489-0931 or ask your provider during your next visit. 
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Once you and your provider have identified your food allergies, you can begin planning how to avoid foods that trigger your allergies.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20355095