Food Allergies

Food Allergies in Orlando, Dr. Phillips, Altamonte Springs, & Alafaya, FL

Food Allergies: Diagnosis, Management & Treatment

Expert Care for Food Allergy Relief

Food allergies affect millions of people, causing reactions that range from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. At Total Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, we specialize in identifying food allergens, providing expert guidance on avoidance strategies, and offering treatments to help you manage food allergies safely and effectively.

What Causes Food Allergies?

Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies certain food proteins as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction. Even small amounts of an allergen can cause symptoms, which may appear within minutes or hours of consumption.

The most common food allergens include:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, etc.)
• Eggs
• Milk & dairy products
• Fish
• Shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster, etc.)
• Wheat (gluten sensitivity is different from wheat allergy)
• Soy
• Certain fruits & vegetables (oral allergy syndrome)
• Sesame (now recognized as a major allergen in the U.S.)

Symptoms of Food Allergies

Food allergy symptoms can vary widely and may affect multiple body systems. Common reactions include:

• Skin Symptoms: Hives, itching, eczema, swelling (especially around the face and lips).
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea.
• Respiratory Symptoms: Wheezing, nasal congestion, shortness of breath.
• Cardiovascular Symptoms: Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure.
• Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening reaction that can cause breathing difficulties, throat swelling, and a drop in blood pressure. Immediate medical attention and epinephrine (EpiPen®) are required.

Food Allergy Testing & Diagnosis

At Total Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, we use advanced diagnostic testing to identify food allergies and differentiate them from food intolerances. Our testing methods include:

• Skin Prick Testing: A small amount of food allergen is applied to the skin to check for a reaction.
• Blood Testing (IgE Testing): Measures specific antibodies to confirm food allergies.
• Oral Food Challenges: A supervised process where small amounts of the suspected allergen are consumed in a controlled medical setting.
• Elimination Diets: Temporarily removing suspected foods from your diet to observe symptom improvement.

Managing & Treating Food Allergies

While there is no cure for food allergies, proper management can prevent severe reactions and improve your quality of life. Our comprehensive approach includes:

1. Avoidance Strategies

• Carefully read food labels for hidden allergens.
• Be cautious when dining out and ask about cross-contamination.
• Prepare meals at home using allergy-safe ingredients.
• Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®) if you have a severe allergy.

2. Emergency Preparedness

• Recognizing early symptoms of an allergic reaction.
• Knowing when to use an EpiPen® and seeking emergency care.
• Creating an emergency action plan for schools, workplaces, and caregivers.

3. Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies

For some food allergies, oral immunotherapy (OIT) may be an option. This treatment involves gradually exposing the immune system to small amounts of the allergen to help desensitize the body and reduce the severity of allergic reactions over time.

4. Nutritional Counseling for Allergy-Friendly Diets

If you or your child has a food allergy, we provide nutritional counseling to ensure a balanced, nutrient-rich diet while avoiding allergens.

Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance

It’s important to distinguish between food allergies and food intolerances:

• Food Allergies involve the immune system and can cause life-threatening reactions.
• Food Intolerances (such as lactose intolerance) primarily affect digestion and do not trigger an immune response.

Find Relief from Food Allergies Today!

If you suspect you have a food allergy, early diagnosis and management are key to preventing severe reactions. Total Allergy, Asthma & Immunology provides expert testing, treatment, and education to help you live safely and confidently with food allergies.

Call today to schedule an appointment and take control of your food allergies. Call:

●      Orlando, FL: (407) 380-8700

●      Dr. Phillips, (Orlando, FL): (407) 370-3705

●      Alafaya, (Orlando, FL): (407) 380-8700

●      Altamonte Springs, FL:(407) 331-6244