How Food Allergies Work and Affect the Body: Understanding the Immune Response
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An estimated 32 million Americans are affected by food allergies. These occur when the immune system misidentifies harmless food proteins as threats, triggering a complex chain of defensive responses.
The Immune Response Process
First Exposure
Body encounters allergen and produces IgE antibodies
Antibody Binding
IgE attaches to mast cells and basophils
Re-exposure
Allergen recognized by IgE antibodies
Chemical Release
Release of histamine and other chemicals
Mild Symptoms
- • Hives and itching
- • Swelling
- • Stomach upset
- • Vomiting
- • Diarrhea
Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis)
- • Difficulty breathing
- • Drop in blood pressure
- • Rapid heartbeat
- • Throat swelling
- • Loss of consciousness
Major Food Allergens
Diagnosis Methods
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Skin prick tests
- Blood tests for IgE
- Oral food challenges
Treatment Options
- Strict allergen avoidance
- Emergency medication
- Oral immunotherapy (OIT)
- Label reading education
- Emergency action plan
Prevention Strategies
Early Introduction
Introduce allergenic foods at 4-6 months
Breastfeeding
Recommended for first 6 months
Environment
Avoid smoke exposure and pollutants
Emergency Action
Always carry prescribed emergency medication (like epinephrine auto-injectors). Seek immediate medical attention for severe reactions or anaphylaxis.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of food allergies.