A food allergy occurs when a food triggers an abnormal response by the body's immune system. This eMedTV article explains the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance, and provides other information about food allergies.
Common food allergies include milk, shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts (such as walnuts). This portion of the eMedTV library provides detailed information on eight of the most common food allergies affecting adults and children.
Common food allergy symptoms include breathing problems, swelling of the throat, and hives. This eMedTV article explains food allergy symptoms in detail and discusses the dangers of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening form of allergic reaction.
To assist with a food allergy diagnosis, the patient may be asked to keep a diet diary. As this eMedTV Web page explains, other diagnostic tools include elimination diets and blood tests. This resource offers an overview of food allergy diagnosis.
An important part of food allergy treatment involves avoiding the foods that trigger reactions. This eMedTV article discusses several treatment options, such as epinephrine injections and antihistamines, for food allergies.
Food allergies in children occur in up to 6 to 8 percent of children under the age of three. This eMedTV segment provides tips on dealing with food allergies in children and lists the most common childhood allergies, such as peanuts.
This eMedTV article provides information about the "food allergy list" the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is requiring for food labels, effective January 2006. The food allergy list will help allergic consumers know which foods to avoid.
As this eMedTV article explains, tartrazine (also known as Yellow No. 5) is a food additive that may cause some people to experience itching or hives. This page discusses food allergy to tartrazine and explains the labeling laws for this additive.
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