How to Identify Food Allergy Symptoms

Food allergies can be life threatening, and they should be taken seriously. However, because symptoms are often mild and disappear on their own, it can be difficult to recognize food allergies. Sadly, mild allergies can become serious over time, wherein the throat may swell. Read on to learn how to identify food allergy symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  Develop a skin reaction. Food allergies cause skin problems such as rashes, hives and eczema. Skin reactions vary. Mild reactions may involve a few bumps or a small rash, whereas a serious reaction may includes hives. The skin may itch or feel sensitive.

• 2

  Notice minor or mild skin swelling. In addition to rashes and hives, the skin may swell. This is a potentially serious problem. Swelling may spread to the throat or esophagus and affect breathing.

• 3

  Feel abdominal discomfort or pain. Allergies to dairy products and gluten may cause intestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea or vomiting. Since other gastrointestinal conditions cause similar symptoms, it’s important to rule out other possible causes such as lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease.

• 4

  Suffer from cold-like symptoms. Sometimes, food allergy symptoms closely mimic a cold. These include coughing, sneezing and runny nose. However, the symptoms don’t respond to cold or flu medications. Take an allergy medication and see whether the symptoms improve.

• 5

  Keep a food journal. Pinpointing the cause of food allergies isn’t easy. It’s best to maintain a food journal and record everything eaten for two to four weeks. Make a note of any reaction. Afterwards, attempt to identify the foods that trigger an allergic reaction.