ruokaaineallergiaa

Ruokaaineallergiaa, commonly referred to as food allergy, is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly identifies certain food proteins as harmful invaders. This triggers an immune response, leading to the release of chemicals like histamine, which cause allergic symptoms. The severity of these reactions can range from mild to life-threatening.

Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. However, almost any food can potentially cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms can manifest rapidly, typically within minutes to a couple of hours after consuming the offending food. These symptoms may include hives, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can occur, characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis of food allergies usually involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, skin prick tests, and blood tests to detect specific IgE antibodies. In some instances, an oral food challenge under medical supervision may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Currently, there is no cure for food allergies. The primary management strategy is strict avoidance of the trigger food. Individuals with food allergies must carefully read food labels and be vigilant about potential cross-contamination. Emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, is often prescribed for individuals at risk of anaphylaxis. While some childhood food allergies may be outgrown, others, particularly those to peanuts and tree nuts, tend to be lifelong. Research into new treatments, such as oral immunotherapy, is ongoing.