What Makes Certain Food Allergies Life-Threatening?

More than half of adults and greater than 40% of children with food allergies have experienced a severe allergic reaction. What makes a reaction severe or life-threatening? The answer lies in how the immune system responds. In severe cases, the body can overreact within minutes, triggering a rapid and whole-body dangerous response known as anaphylaxis. 

If you think you have a food allergy and need evaluation, see Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and our team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne and Gainesville, Virginia, for allergy testing and treatment recommendations. Understanding food allergies and why certain foods are more likely to cause severe reactions could save your life. Learn more below.

Common foods that may cause allergic reactions

The following foods may be allergens (cause allergic reactions) for some people:

• Sesame
• Soy nuts
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts
• Sesame
• Wheat
• Milk
• Eggs
• Shellfish
• Fish

These foods account for about 90% of food allergies, and it’s common to have allergies to more than one type of food.

Potentially life-threatening food allergy symptoms

The following symptoms of food allergies may be severe or even life-threatening when left untreated:

• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pain
• Face, tongue, lip, or throat swelling
• Hives all over your body
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Faintness
• Tingling in your feet, hands, or lips
• Feeling of impending doom
• Dangerously low blood pressure

If you or a loved one experiences life-threatening symptoms, head to a nearby emergency room or dial 911. 

Other possible food allergy symptoms

Food allergies may also contribute to the following symptoms:

• Skin rash
• Hoarse voice
• Itchy skin, mouth, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Diarrea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion

You might notice these or similar symptoms after eating certain foods. While they might not be as severe, it’s still important to see Dr. Paluvoi if you notice them. 

What makes some food allergies life-threatening?

Whether a food allergy is life-threatening depends on your body’s response and the amount of food allergen you’re exposed to. 

Some people have more severe allergic reactions, particularly those with immunodeficiency, to the same food than other people with similar allergies. Consuming larger amounts of food allergens might increase the severity of your reaction. 

Dr. Paluvoi offers allergy testing (blood tests, skin prick tests, elimination diet, etc.) to determine how allergic you are to certain foods and the best way to manage your condition. 

He might recommend medications, avoiding certain foods, and carrying an epinephrine pen with you to use in case of a severe allergic reaction. Dr. Paluvoi follows up to ensure an effective outcome and help you avoid life-threatening situations.

Schedule a visit with us at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates by contacting our office by phone or requesting an appointment online today.