The Basics of a Food Allergy Reaction

Histamine, whaddya mean?!

A scoop of peanut butter, a bite of yogurt, a piece of toast, or a sip of cashew mylk. All of these things may seem pretty benign, but to a person with food allergies these foods can mean an Epi-pen and a trip to the emergency room. So, how is it that the very foods that are supposed to provide sustenance and nourishment instead become life-threatening?

Let’s take a look inside the body, shall we? It all starts when an allergic person comes into contact with their allergen (ex. peanuts), either through the skin or by ingestion. For undetermined reasons, the body incorrectly labels that substance as a threat and your immune system starts creating tons of unnecessary drama. Kinda like what happens during any Real Housewives show.

The overreaction triggers the release of an antibody known as IgE (immunoglobulin E). These antibodies are special proteins that can detect particular food proteins. They sit on the surface of allergy cells found throughout the body and their purpose is to help defend the body. In an allergic person, they do this by detecting the food allergen and alerting the cells to pour out chemicals, such as histamines.

The histamines jump into action. Their goal is to help your body rid itself of the substance that's bothering you. Here, that substance would be your food allergen. The histamines initiate a process to get those allergens out of your body or off your skin. To do so, they use mechanisms that are symptoms of allergic reactions. For instance, they can make you sneeze, tear up, itch or make your mouth or tongue tingle and swell-- whatever it takes to get the job done. This is why we take an “anti-histamine” to get rid of allergy symptoms. The medication works to quiet the histamine response.

Speaking of allergy symptoms, it’s a good idea to know what they are and to be able to recognize when you’re experiencing them. According to the Mayo Clinic, food allergy symptoms usually develop within a few minutes to two hours after eating or coming into contact with the offending food. The results can range from a minor allergic response to a very severe reaction called anaphylaxis.

The most common food allergy signs and symptoms include:

• Tingling or itching in the mouth

• Hives, itching or eczema

• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat or other parts of the body

• Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing

• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting

In some people, a food allergy can trigger a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This can cause life-threatening signs and symptoms, including:

• Constriction and tightening of the airways

• A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe

• Shock with a severe drop in blood pressure

• Rapid pulse

• Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness

Emergency treatment is critical for anaphylaxis. Untreated, anaphylaxis can cause a coma or even death. If you ever think you’re in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to call 9-1-1.

*Hey, Kim K. is not a doctor or medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you think you are suffering from a medical condition, please consult a medical provider.