What is Food Hypersensitivity?

Food allergies are immune system reactions that occur shortly after consuming a specific food. Even a trace amount of the allergy-causing food can cause symptoms such as digestive issues, hives, or swollen airways. A food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even a life-threatening reaction is known as anaphylaxis in some people. Food allergies affect up to 4% of children under the age of five and up to 8% of adults. While there is no cure for food allergies, some children outgrow them as they grow older. A food allergy is easily confused with a much more common reaction known as food intolerance. Food intolerance, while annoying, is a less serious condition that does not involve the immune system.

The most common signs of food hypersensitivity include: 

• Itching or tingling sensation in the mouth
• Itching, Eczema or hives
• Throat swelling, Lip, face, and tongue as well as swelling in other parts of the body
• Wheezing, nasal congestion, or breathing difficulties
• Pain in the diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or fainting

Food hypersensitivity can cause a severe allergic reaction called as anaphylaxis in some people. This can result in life-threatening signs and symptoms such as:

• Airway constriction and tightening
• A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes breathing difficult
• Shock with a significant drop in blood pressure
• A quick pulse
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness