Food Allergy

The body’s immune system keeps you healthy by fighting off infections and viruses. A food allergy occurs when our immune system responds abnormally to certain foods. Skin allergies, like rashes and hives, are likely symptoms that surface when the body is exposed to allergenic food. These allergies most commonly affect babies and children, but they can appear at any age. We can even develop an allergy to the food that we have eaten for years with no problems!

The key to healing from skin allergies caused by allergenic foods is through proper diagnostics before medical treatments are conducted.

It is advisable to visit your nearby doctor in Singapore for further consultation.

Symptoms of food allergy

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe. A mild reaction may cause more severe symptoms at another time.

On top of those symptoms mentioned above, other mild symptoms include itching of eyes, flushing, hives or eczema. Severe reactions manifest as throat tightness, breathing difficulties, wheezing,giddiness, weak pulse, faintness or loss of consciousness.

Allergic symptoms  appear within minutes to 2 hours after ingestion. Common source of food allergy in Singapore include fish and shellfish, peanuts, eggs and cow’s milk.

Diagnosis & Treatments for food allergy

Diagnosis of food allergy is made based on a detailed history and tests which may be a skin prick test and/or a blood test. Once diagnosed, be sure to remove all problem food from your diet, as repeated exposure can cause a minor reaction to become a major one. If your child is diagnosed with a food allergy, it is best for your child to have a medical bracelet stating his allergy, symptoms and first aid measure.

If you feel you have a food allergy, speak to your doctor about your symptoms. We would be able give you a better idea about your condition.