Food allergies

Food allergies occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat and triggers an allergic reaction. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild (such as hives or itching) to severe (anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can cause difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness). If you suspect that you have a food allergy, it is important to seek medical attention and receive a diagnosis. Treatment for food allergies typically involves strict avoidance of the allergen, as well as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an accidental exposure. In some cases, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended to desensitize the body to the allergen over time.