Find out! What is a food allergy and how to prevent it?
It can be said that it is a familiar matter that many people overlook. But in fact, it is more dangerous than you think. For “food allergies” that may start from food allergies and rashes, to severe cases that lead to serious illness or death. For this reason, in order to prevent various risks. From the beginning, this article will explain what food allergies are, along with recommendations for how to treat food allergies and many other things that you should know in an easy-to-understand way. Follow along.
What is a food allergy ?
Briefly explained, food allergy is an abnormal reaction of the body to certain foods. It occurs when the body creates “IgE antibodies” in response to proteins in certain foods. When exposed to that food again, IgE will bind to the protein, stimulating cells to release chemicals such as “histamine”. Which has the main function of fighting foreign substances. But when released in excessive amounts, it will affect various systems in the body. Causing food allergies that range from rashes to death.
It is currently unknown what is the main cause, but it is believed to be due to a combination of factors, such as:
- Genetics: People with a family history of allergies are more likely to develop food allergies than the general population, and certain genes may be associated with an increased risk of food allergies.
- Environment: Air pollution, infections, and the use of certain medications can affect the immune system and increase the risk of food allergies, as well as childhood exposure to allergens such as dust mites, insects, pets, and pollen.
- Immune factors: A malfunction of the immune system causes the body to produce too many IgE antibodies. When exposed to an allergic food, the body releases histamine and other chemicals.
Types of food allergies
Acute Allergic Reaction
Acute allergic reactions usually occur within 2 hours after eating the food to which you are allergic. Common symptoms include: เล่นเกมคาสิโน UFABET ทันสมัย ฝากถอนง่าย Acute allergic reactions usually occur within 2 hours after eating the food to which you are allergic. Common symptoms include:
- Skin symptoms: Itchy rash, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat.
- Respiratory symptoms: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, asthma
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
- Cardiovascular symptoms: Dizziness, faintness, and loss of consciousness.
Delayed Allergic Reaction
In contrast to the first type, a non-acute allergic reaction can start to be felt 2-48 hours after eating the food you are allergic to. Although the symptoms are not as severe as an acute allergic reaction, it can make it difficult to pinpoint the type of food you are allergic to. Common symptoms include the following:
- Skin symptoms: Itchy rash, chronic dermatitis
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Flatulence, bloating, constipation, chronic diarrhea
- Respiratory symptoms: Runny nose, chronic cough
- Other symptoms: headache, fatigue
As for the question “How many days does it take for food allergies to go away?”, there is certainly no fixed answer because food allergies, whether acute or non-acute, vary depending on individual factors. Therefore, if the allergy does not show any signs of improvement, even after a long period of time, it is recommended to see a doctor immediately.