The percentage of people who have an actual food allergy ranges from 3% in adults to 8% in children. Many adverse reactions to food are categorized as an allergic reaction when in reality that is not the case at all. Other food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, food poisoning and toxic reaction cause similar symptoms. The symptoms can be, but are not limited to: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or stomach cramps, diarrhea, hives, skin rash, headaches, earaches, runny nose, sneezing and in sever cases, anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a system-wide allergic reaction that can be fatal. The most common foods associated with allergic symptoms are:

• Eggs
• Cow’s milk
• Peanuts
• Soy
• Wheat
• Corn
• Shrimp and other shellfish
• Salads & fresh fruits

Though most food allergies occur in infants and children, they can appear at any age and can be caused by foods that have been eaten for years without problem. Excessive exposure may cause the development of food allergies. For example, Scandinavians have a high incidence of fish allergy. Allergic reactions to food may appear to become “dormant” or disappear for months or even years. An individual that has severe, immediate reactions to particular foods should NEVER eat them again. Even a small taste of the allergenic food can be life threatening.

Drug Allergies

When you read the label it states common side effects for many drugs. For example, an upset stomach may occur from taking aspirin and drowsiness may occur after taking a cold medication. However, a drug allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies a drug as if it were a harmful substance instead of a helpful remedy. Created by our immune system, antibodies release chemicals that attack the medication. This causes the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. Symptoms of a drug allergy:

• Skin rash or hives
• Fever
• Facial swelling
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Dizziness
• Itchy skin
• Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a system-wide allergic reaction that can be fatal. Listed below are some of the symptoms associated with anaphylaxis:

• Tightening of the airways and throat, causing trouble breathing
• Weak, rapid pulse
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Shock, with a severe drop in blood pressure

It is possible to have an allergic response to a drug that in the past caused no problems. Inherited traits may play a role. People with a family history of drug allergies may be more likely to develop a drug allergy; however, the person must have had a previous exposure to the drug in order to have a true allergic reaction.