What happens to your body when you have an allergic reaction to food?
Dr. Avni Joshi, a Mayo Clinic pediatric allergist and immunologist, asks, “How does food allergy happen is the first question?”
Dr. Joshi says researchers are still working that out, but one theory has to do with babies who have the skin condition, eczema.
“The food gets introduced through the skin, and that causes an aberrant immune response. Instead of the food being tolerant, you start recognizing the food as an allergen.”
When that food, such as a peanut, is introduced into diets later, the babies already have developed antibodies against that food.
“Many kids start having itching and throat closure. If a large amount is consumed, they can have vomiting. They can have head-to-toe hives, breathing difficulty and anaphylaxis.”
Anaphylaxis happens when your immune system identifies a substance, such as peanuts, as foreign. This triggers cells called “mast cells” to release chemicals that cause many symptoms, including dilated blood vessels, low blood pressure, flushing, constricted airways, intestinal problems and even death.
If you’re concerned about food allergies, talk to your health care provider.
Disclaimer
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure & Legal Disclaimer
AI Content Policy.
To provide our readers with timely and comprehensive coverage, South Florida Reporter uses artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in producing certain articles and visual content.
Articles: AI may be used to assist in research, structural drafting, or data analysis. All AI-assisted text is reviewed and edited by our team to ensure accuracy and adherence to our editorial standards.
Images: Any imagery generated or significantly altered by AI is clearly marked with a disclaimer or watermark to distinguish it from traditional photography or editorial illustrations.
General Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service. In no event shall South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service.
The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice. The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components.
