THE OFFICES OF
Howard Menikoff, MD & Jenny Shliozberg, MD
New York: 212.473.7892
Brooklyn: 718.338.1313
The Hamptons: 631.998.4054
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THE VILLAGE Allergy Asthma Immunology Centre
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- Food Allergies -
A food allergy is an adverse immune response to a food protein. They are distinct from other adverse responses to food, such as food intolerance. The protein in the food is the most common allergic component. These kinds of allergies occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a protein as harmful.
Food Allergies Symptoms & Treatments
Most common in children:
• Milk
• Egg
• Peanut
• Corn
• Wheat
• Soy
• Fish
Most common in Adults:
• Shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts
Food Allergy Testing & Diagnosis
• Blood test
• Skin tests
• Oral challenge
Of the more than three thousand foods, there is not a single food that has not caused at least one allergic reaction in someone, somewhere. Symptoms will vary from hives/welts or urticaria to asthma, eczema, nasal or sinus conditions, ear infections, stomach or intestinal disorders, headaches, migraines or general malaise.
Major Food Allergens:
• Peanuts . • Soy
• Milk • Fish
• Wheat • Gluten
• Tree nuts • Shellfish
• Eggs • Sulfites
Food Allergy Symptoms:
• Itching
• Hives or Eczema
• Swelling of the lips
• Swelling of the tongue
• Swelling of the face
• Trouble breathing
• Nasal congestion
• Wheezing
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Cramps and bloating
• Nausea, vomiting
Treatment for Food Allergies:
• Antihistamines
• Avoidance
• Epinephrine
• Steroids
• Possibility of SLIT (Sub Lingual Immuno Therapy)
SLIT, (Sub Lingual Immuno Therapy)
These are allergy drops administered under the tongue by the patient, at home. Although somewhat less effective than standard allergy shots, this a wonderful alternative for patients who are either “afraid” of needles or cannot commit to the time involved in going for “shots”.
Did you know?
Since January 1, 2006 The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that the labels of foods containing major food allergens declare the allergen in plain language on the label.
In the Unites States,
it is estimated that up to twelve million people have food allergies.