Elintarvikeallergia

Elintarvikeallergia, commonly known as food allergy, is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food protein as harmful and launches an immune response. This response can manifest in a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include hives, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and respiratory problems such as wheezing or difficulty breathing. In rare but serious cases, food allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

The most common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. The development of food allergies is influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, physical examination, skin prick tests, and sometimes blood tests to detect specific IgE antibodies. An oral food challenge, supervised by a healthcare professional, may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Currently, there is no cure for food allergy, and the primary management strategy is strict avoidance of the offending food. Reading food labels carefully is crucial for individuals with food allergies. Emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, is often prescribed for individuals at risk of anaphylaxis. Research is ongoing to explore new diagnostic tools and potential treatments, including immunotherapy. Support groups and educational resources are available for individuals and families affected by food allergies.