More than half of Americans have a food-related sensitivity. While most food allergies are diagnosed in childhood, at least 15% of patients are first diagnosed in adulthood. The top nine food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, and sesame. Tree nuts, peanuts, milk and shellfish are the most frequently reported food allergens. Diagnosing a food allergy early and strict avoidance of the food allergen is the best way to manage serious health issues.
A food allergy reaction does not happen just at home, school, or a restaurant it can happen anywhere, including the workplace. Using a shared kitchen, eating at a party, or traveling can expose you to food allergens. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, coughing, swelling of the face and tongue, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is characterized by difficulty breathing, swelling, low blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. This is the most serious reaction and requires an epinephrine injection immediately to stop the reaction.
