Overreations With Food Allergy Symptoms

Food allergy mostly manifest in young children than in adults. However, true or classic food allergy approximately affect 1 out of 70 adults. Such allergy is caused by the overreaction of the body's immune system to specific types of food. The response can result to severe and life-threatening symptoms. Take note that allergies or being atopy is partially genetic. For instance a family member has asthma or eczema, it is expected that you will likely have allergies.

There are two components involved in true or classic allergy - production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and mast cell. IgE is an antibody in the blood that attacks foreign bodies or "invaders." Mast cell, on the other hand, is a kind of cell, which can be found in body parts where most allergies occur (skin, nose, throat, lungs, etc.).

Generally, symptoms will start to appear as soon as two minutes after eating the food. Apparent reactions, however, may take place within 1 to 2 hours. In some cases, signs may subside a little while, only to happen again in the next 3 to 4 hours.

The common symptoms include:

* swelling of the mouth and lips

* skin itching followed by rashes, hives, wheals or reddish bumps

* nausea

* vomiting

* diarrhea

* belly cramps

* stuffy or runny nose

* itching and watering of the eyes

Other and more severe allergic reaction are:

* tightening in the chest

* irregular or rapid heartbeat

* feeling dizzy or light-headed

* shortness and difficulty in breathing

* choking or tightness in the throat

* passing out or losing consciousness

Remember that food allergy must not be confused with food intolerance or even food poisoning. Since, the other two don't involve any immune system responses. With food allergy, the body mistakes certain foods as dangerous. This results to the production of IgE, which triggers the mast cell to release chemicals like histamine.