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Food Allergies; Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis
Food Allergies; Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis
Food allergy is the abnormal immune response that causes the individual to suffer from multiple physical symptoms after consuming a certain food.

People exhibiting symptoms such as vomiting, wheezing, and dizziness after consuming food should consult an internal medicine doctor in Lahore. The person may be allergic to a specific food item, which can cause health deterioration. The doctor will conduct relevant tests to diagnose the cause and severity. The medical intervention will help the individual manage the symptoms and avoid further complications.

Food Allergy and its Symptoms

Food allergy is the abnormal immune response that causes the individual to suffer from multiple physical symptoms after consuming a certain food. The common symptoms of food allergy include:

·         The patient suffers from unbearable abdominal pain after consuming food. The cramps can cause pain and discomfort, affecting the overall performance of the patient.

·         The individual suffers from bloating, which can cause extreme discomfort.

·         The individual has a tingling sensation after eating the food.

·         The patient has a metallic taste in the mouth after consuming food.

·         The individual suffers from nausea and vomiting, which can affect the electrolytes in the body.

·         The patient suffers from shortness of breath, which affects the functioning of the vital organs.

·         The person notices swelling on the tongue, which causes difficulty in swallowing food.

·         The person feels dizzy due to a drop in blood pressure levels.

·         The person exhibits symptoms of anaphylaxis if they delay the treatment.

·         The person observes rashes and hives on the skin.

Causes

The common causes of food allergies include:

·         The abnormal immune response to a specific food item can cause the individual to suffer from food allergies.

·         The common foods that can trigger the allergy include; wheat, dairy products, peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, and soya. The individual aware of their condition must avoid the specific food that can trigger the symptoms, as the allergy can become life-threatening.

Preventative Measures

The preventative measures that can help reduce the chances of suffering from food allergy are:

·         Individuals aware of food items that may cause an allergic reaction should remain vigilant and monitor their dietary intake.

·         The person must read the ingredients while purchasing food.

·         Individuals must inquire about the ingredients used to prepare the food while eating out.

·         The person must carry the drugs that can help manage the symptoms of allergy as it can be life-threatening.

Diagnosis

The tests that help diagnose the food allergy are:

·         Physical Examination: The specialist will conduct a thorough physical exam to rule out the possibility of anaphylactic reactions. If the person exhibits signs of anaphylaxis, then the specialist will recommend the treatment plan accordingly.

·         Blood Testing: Blood tests help detect the presence of antibodies.

·         Skin Prick test: To confirm that the individual is allergic to a certain food the specialist injects a small amount into the skin. If there is a reaction to the skin, the patient will be aware of the allergen, which will help them to avoid it in the future.

·         Oral Food Test: Patients who cannot identify the allergens and may suffer from recurrent symptoms of food allergy take oral food tests under medical supervision.

Effective Treatment Options

The medications and therapies that help treat a patient suffering from food allergy are:

·         Use of Alpha-and beta-adrenergic agonists: The patients suffering from anaphylactic shock have to take Alpha-and beta-adrenergic agonists to manage the symptoms and prevent permanent damage to the vital organs.

·         Use of Antihistamines: The medication helps treat rashes and hives that cause extreme itchiness and discomfort.

·         Bronchodilators: The medications help widen the airway caused by inflammation.

·         Oxygen therapy: The shock can cause breathing problems; hence, the patient is given oxygen therapy.

·         Intravenous Therapy: The swelling on the tongue can cause difficulty in swallowing food. Intravenous therapy helps meet the nutritional needs of the body.

Individuals with a food allergy must discuss their symptoms with the best internal medicine specialist in Karachi for guidance regarding first aid if they experience similar symptoms in the future. The person with food allergies must always remain conscious of their dietary intake to avoid complications.