Food Allergies
The important first step is scheduling an appointment with an Ear, Nose & Throat Associates of Chester County allergist for testing and identification of specific food triggers. Food allergies affect many children and adults. Certain foods, even in very small amounts can trigger an immune system reaction resulting in a swollen airway, hives, itching, or digestive problems. Some people may even experience life threatening anaphylaxis as a result of their food allergy.
Symptoms of food allergies can include:
- Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea
- Hives, itching
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, congestion
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other body parts
- Lightheaded, fainting
Common food allergies:
- Shellfish
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Fish
- Eggs
- Milk
- Wheat
Testing: In addition to a physical exam, blood testing, skin testing and food elimination are ways of detecting food allergies