Food Allergies

A food allergy is an immune system reaction that a person has to a certain type of food. Food allergies are a common problem for people in Utah, and Douglas Anderson is familiar with diagnosing and treating a variety of issues. Food allergies can trigger a variety of symptoms, and in extreme cases, can be life threatening. If you have experienced any of the following symptoms, it’s important to see a qualified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor right away.

Food Allergy Signs and Symptoms

An allergic reaction can be very different for each person, depending on the severity of the allergy. Symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life threatening. Most food allergy symptoms begin within a few minutes and last up to a couple hours after ingestion.

Some of the most common symptoms of a food allergy include:

·      Swelling on the lips, face, tongue, and throat

·      Tingling or itching in the mouth

·      Hives, itching, or eczema across the body

·      Trouble breathing, wheezing, or nasal congestion

·      Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting

·      Dizziness or fainting

People with certain food allergies may also experience a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. During an anaphylactic episode, a person may experience life threatening symptoms, including constricted airways, swollen throat, shock, drastic drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness. If not treated immediately, anaphylaxis can lead to a coma or even death.

Treatments for Food Allergies

To subdue a minor allergic reaction, people can take over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Benadryl, but these medications will not treat severe allergic reactions. For severe allergy problems, your doctor may give you an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen) to carry on you at all times in case you have a reaction. When using an epinephrine autoinjector, you will need to administer the medicine as quickly as possible and make an immediate visit to your doctor, urgent care, or the emergency room.

Are you concerned that you may be allergic to certain foods? Douglas Anderson, MD in Ogden has years of experience treating patients with a variety of food allergies. Contact our team today to schedule your appointment.