The only proven treatment for a food allergy is to avoid the food! If you suspect you or your child has a food allergy, consult an allergy specialist.

If you have symptoms confined to one area of the body (for example, a hive on the chin after eating the specific food), you may not need any treatment. The symptoms will subside in a brief time. Antihistamines may relieve the discomfort. Soothing skin creams may provide some relief.

If a person develops any type of serious or whole-body reaction (even hives) after eating the offending food, the person should inject the epinephrine, and then go to the nearest hospital or emergency facility, preferably by ambulance. Anyone diagnosed with a food allergy should carry (and know how to use) injectible epinephrine at all times.

THE ORAL ALLERGY SYNDROME

The oral allergy syndrome consists of itching lips, tongue, and throat, and sometimes swollen lips. It occurs after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables. The allergens in these foods are similar to certain pollens. Examples are Melon/Ragweed pollen and Apple/Tree pollen. While people with oral allergy syndrome rarely have an anaphylactic reaction, they should ask their doctor whether they need to carry injectible epinephrine.

Avoiding the offending foods may be easy if the food is uncommon or easily identified. However, success may involve a severely restricted diet and often requires diligent reading of all package ingredients and detailed inquiries when eating away from home. Children may outgrow allergies to milk, egg, wheat, and soy.

• Call your local emergency number, such as 911, if you have any serious or whole-body reactions after eating a food (particularly wheezing or difficulty breathing).
• If your doctor prescribed epinephrine for severe reactions, inject it as soon as possible, even BEFORE calling 911. The sooner you inject the epinephrine, the better.
• Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to a food should be evaluated by an allergy specialist.