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Food allergy: symptoms, diagnosis and condition control
What is a food allergy?
A food allergy is a reaction of the immune system to certain components of food that it mistakenly recognizes as dangerous. Unlike food intolerance, which is related to digestion, an allergy is immunological in nature and can cause acute, even life-threatening symptoms.
The immune system then produces IgE antibodies, which upon repeated contact with the allergen cause the release of histamine - it is he who is responsible for itching, swelling, rashes and other signs of allergy.
Main allergen products
There are products that most often cause an allergic reaction - the so-called major food allergens:
cow's milk
eggs (mainly egg whites)
fish and seafood
peanuts, other nuts
wheat
soy
fruits (apples, peaches, strawberries)
vegetables (celery, carrots)
Example:
A child develops hives, cough, and vomiting after eating an omelet. An allergy test shows a clear reaction to egg white — diagnosed food allergy to eggs.
Typical symptoms of food allergies
Symptoms depend on the type of reaction and the amount of allergen. They can be:
Skin:
itching, rash, hives
swelling, especially in the face, lips, and eyelids
eczema
Gastrointestinal:
nausea, vomiting
abdominal pain, colic
diarrhea
Respiratory:
sneezing, nasal congestion
cough, bronchospasm
dyspnea
System:
anaphylaxis (a life-threatening condition with a sharp drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and respiratory failure)
Food allergy diagnosis
1. History taking
The doctor collects information about eating habits, the appearance of symptoms, and reactions from relatives.
2. Skin prick tests
Applying a drop of allergen to the skin with a slight puncture. If redness or a blister appears, it is a positive reaction.
3. Blood test for specific IgE
Detects antibodies to certain allergens. Is an alternative to skin tests (for example, when there are skin diseases).
4. Allergocomponent diagnostics (molecular allergy testing)
It allows you to identify which molecule in the product there is a reaction to - this is a more accurate and modern method.
5. Provocation tests (under the supervision of a doctor)
They are performed in a clinic setting when other methods do not provide clarity. The patient takes the allergen in microdoses under supervision.
Comparison of diagnostic methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Skin prick tests | Fast, clear, inexpensive | Contraindicated in skin diseases |
| IgE blood test | Contactless, suitable for children | High price, sometimes false positive results |
| Allergocomponent diagnostics | Identifies a specific allergen molecule | Not available in all laboratories |
| Provocation test | The most accurate method | May cause a strong reaction, risky |
How to control food allergies
Avoiding allergens — the main and most effective way. Always read labels, find out about the composition of dishes in the cafe
Carry antihistamines with you., and in case of anaphylaxis - adrenaline auto-injectors (e.g. EpiPen)
Report allergies to medical staff before vaccinations, surgeries, and new medications
Create a personalized nutrition plan together with an allergist or dietitian
Watch the reactions after introducing new foods (especially in children)
Food allergies require attention and a responsible attitude. Timely diagnosis, proper diet management, and knowledge of the basics of self-help are the basis of a safe life for people with allergies.
