Food allergy is a condition in which food triggers an allergic response in the body, as immune system misrecognizes certain food proteins as harmful.

Under this condition, the body instantly undergoes into protective mode by releasing a chemical that can induce an inflammatory response.

Individuals suffering from food allergy are always under the risk of negative reactions by the body and these can vary from mild to severe. Peanut, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, soy, wheat, egg, milk etc. can cause food allergies in children and adults.

The signs and symptoms of food allergy may include swelling of face or tongue, breathing difficulties, reduced blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, eczema, abdominal cramps and pain, dizziness, nasal congestion, tingling in mouth and tongue and may also lead to anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis in severe cases.

However, do not mistake food intolerance to food allergies as both are two different conditions. Majority of the food allergies are caused due to eight main food types including "cow's milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, fish, soy and wheat and can often be triggered by family history of asthma, eczema or other allergies.

If an individual is already allergic to a certain type of food, it is more likely they will be developing other food allergies as well.

Treatment

There are no specific treatment options available for food allergies. Avoiding those food types that cause an allergic reaction is the best way to deal with this condition.