When Should You Consider Food Allergy Testing?
If you are experiencing symptoms after eating, getting the right food allergy care can change how you feel day-to-day. But before any treatment can begin, testing is used to confirm if a food allergy is actually the cause. When you are managing your own symptoms or trying to find answers for your child, you may be unsure when it’s time to visit a North Texas food allergy specialist. Here are the key factors that indicate you might need food allergy testing.
Common Signs You Need Food Allergy Testing
Food allergy symptoms can often be unpredictable, with the possibility of anaphylaxis in rare cases. Consider the following factors, and don’t hesitate to visit an allergist if you have concerns.
Repeated Reactions After Eating the Same Food
Look for patterns that suggest a specific food is causing the immune system to react. For example, symptoms could appear after eating eggs or baked goods containing eggs. After eating peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish or other foods, you may experience hives, swelling, itching, vomiting and other symptoms.
Symptoms That Appear Quickly After Eating
Food allergy reactions usually happen quickly after eating the food. In most cases symptoms are noticeable within a few minutes, though it could take a few hours before they appear. When you recognize food allergy signs, including stomach issues or breathing difficulties, make a note of the specific foods that you or your child consumed.
Experiencing a Severe Allergic Reaction
Those having a severe allergic reaction may experience a rapid pulse, throat tightness, dizziness, possible fainting and breathing difficulties. When such symptoms occur you should seek emergency medical assistance as soon as possible. After a severe reaction or anaphylaxis, your physician may recommend food allergy testing to help identify the cause.
Signs of a Food Reaction in Children
Young children may not be able to describe their symptoms, and how they’re feeling after a reaction. If your child appears distressed or uncomfortable after eating, watch for signs of a rash, swelling, irritability, vomiting or diarrhea. Early food allergy testing can also identify a safe and healthy diet to follow.
A Family History of Food Allergies
A family history of food allergies is no guarantee that a child will become allergic, but it does put them at higher risk. The allergy could be triggered by the same food that affects a parent or sibling, or a completely different one. If your child has a family history of allergies and is showing symptoms, an allergist will likely recommend testing to identify the cause.
Ongoing Symptoms With No Clear Cause
In some cases a person may have persistent digestive issues, hives or eczema, but cannot make a positive connection to a specific food. Visiting an allergist for food allergy testing can help identify a food-related cause, and confirm or rule out an allergy.
Food Allergy Testing for Families in North Texas
Safe2Bite | Texas Food Allergy Center diagnoses allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs and other foods. We provide professional food allergy testing for individuals and families experiencing allergy symptoms. Call (469) 916-5504 or request an appointment.
