3 Things To Know About Food Allergies

Have you noticed that eating certain meals leads to your ears feeling clogged up? It might be time for you to make an appointment with a specialist to find out if there is something in the foods you eat that sets off an allergic reaction. You must keep in mind that if treatment is not undergone for a food allergy that it can possibly become fatal. This article covers a few of the things that you should know in regards to suffering from a food allergy.

1. The Cause & Symptoms

When your body reacts negatively to certain types of foods, it has to do with your immune system. Basically, your immune system is determining that the foods are not supposed to be in your body. The allergic reactions are the way that the immune system gives you a sign that something is not right. Other than clogged up ears, there are numerous other symptoms that can be experienced, such as a fatal condition called anaphylaxis. Some of the more minor symptoms include coughing, sore throat, nasal congestion, and sinus irritation.

2. How a Diagnosis is Made

The main focus that a specialist will have when making a diagnosis is determining what you have been eating that sets the allergic reaction off. You will be asked about the types of foods you eat when your ears begin feeling clogged. There might simply be a specific ingredient that you need to avoid consuming in food products, such as nuts or dairy. It is likely that the specialist will run a test on your skin that involves placing different allergens on it and observing your reaction. He or she can also find out about the extent of allergens in your body by giving you a blood test.

3. Treatment You May Need

If ear congestion is the only symptom that you have been experiencing, a specialist might simply recommend that you avoid certain foods. However, if you are experiencing multiple symptoms, you might be prescribed a corticosteroid spray that can treat flare-ups. It is also common for a leukotriene inhibitor to be prescribed depending on how severe your symptoms are. When a food allergy is deemed to be life-threatening, an epinephrine ejector that you can be carried around will likely be prescribed. Keep in mind that you also have the option of undergoing immunotherapy to make your body immune to allergens in food altogether.

For more information about food allergy treatments, visit a health clinic near you.