After eating a certain food, reactions of the immune system can occur, causing food allergy. However, this should not be confused with food intolerances as these are less serious conditions that do not involve the immune system. On the other hand, food allergies can cause serious consequences or even anaphylaxis. The latter are reactions that arise and can endanger the life of the sufferer. In this article you will find all the information you need about the treatment of food allergy and when to call our emergency doctor for food allergy in Sotogrande.
Is it a food allergy?
Allergic reactions to certain foods can be unpleasant but not serious in some people. For others, an allergic reaction can be fatal. After eating an allergy-causing food, the symptoms usually appear within a few minutes to two hours.
These are the most common signs and symptoms of food allergies:
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or breathing problems
- Hives, itching or eczema
- Dizziness, vertigo or fainting
- Tingling or itching in the mouth
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat or other parts of the body
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
Treatment
Of course, the only way to avoid a food allergy is not to eat those foods that cause the symptoms described. However, sometimes you can come into contact with a food you are allergic to without being aware of it. For mild cases of a minor allergy, it is recommended to take over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines to relieve hives or itching. On the other hand, this is not useful for treating severe allergic reactions.
In the case of a severe allergy, you will most likely need an epinephrine injection or an imminent transfer to the emergency room. For those who suffer from severe allergies, it is advisable to carry an epinephrine auto-injector for such emergency cases. This combination of a hidden needle and syringe normally acts on the thigh by providing a saola dose of medication.
It is important that you carry it with you at all times and that you and those closest to you know how to use an epinephrine auto-injector. This device could save your life if you are in an anaphylactic emergency. It would be a good idea to carry an additional autoinjector in your office desk or car. Also, remember that it is mandatory to replace the epinephrine before its expiration date as it may not work effectively.
When to call our emergency doctor for food allergy in Sotogrande
If you feel symptoms of a food allergy shortly after eating, call our allergist or consult our doctor so that a diagnosis can be made.
Call our emergency doctor for food allergy in Sotogrande if you experience any of this anaphylaxis symptoms or signs, such as:
- Shock with a severe drop in blood pressure
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid pulse
- Constriction of airways that makes it difficult to breathe