Food Allergies

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A food allergy is an abnormal immune reaction to a food protein. They are different from food intolerances, which are non-immune reactions to foods. Both can cause similar symptoms, but the severity of an allergic reaction is much greater.

Food allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, including hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.

The most common food allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

There are many ways to manage food allergies. Avoiding the allergen is the best way to prevent a reaction. However, this is not always possible.

If you have a food allergy, it is important to carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) with you at all times. Epinephrine is the medication that can stop an anaphylactic reaction. If you have a severe reaction, you will need to go to the hospital for treatment.

Whilst there is no cure for food allergies, some people may outgrow their allergies. If you have a food allergy, it is important to see an allergist for proper diagnosis and management.

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