what is a food allergy

A food allergy is an immune system reaction that happens soon after eating a certain food. The immune system mistakenly treats a protein in the food as a harmful substance, triggering an allergic response. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can cause symptoms such as hives, swelling (especially of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), digestive problems, wheezing, or trouble breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction requiring emergency treatment. Food allergy differs from food intolerance, which does not involve the immune system and generally causes only digestive discomfort. Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, and sesame. Food allergies are more common in children, some of whom may outgrow them, while others persist throughout life. The only effective treatment is avoiding the offending food and having a plan for accidental exposure, sometimes including the use of emergency medication like epinephrine.