Food Allergy Treatment in San Francisco, CA
It is incredibly common for adults, infants and young children to have some type of food allergy. This chronic condition is believed to affect upward of 50 million people within the United States.
Not everyone will experience an allergic reaction the very first time they consume a particular food. Some may develop an allergy later in life, which is why it is important to see a specialist if you notice any abnormal symptoms, regardless of your child’s age.
At San Francisco Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, we specialize in providing comprehensive care to address your specific food allergy. Our expert team is dedicated to offering cutting-edge diagnostic services and personalized food allergy treatment options. Contact us today at (415) 362-2614 to schedule your consultation.
What Are the Signs of a Food Allergy?
Symptoms of a food allergy exist on a spectrum, meaning that they can range from very mild to severe. More mild reactions would include having an itchy mouth or throat, while the most severe type of reaction is anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis will occur within moments of ingesting an allergic substance. It will typically cause the throat to swell, making breathing quite difficult. Anyone who experiences anaphylaxis will need medical attention immediately.
Less intense reactions will often occur within a couple hours of eating a trigger food. In some cases, there may be a delayed reaction that does not present itself until 4 or even 6 hours after food consumption.
People with a food allergy will usually exhibit one or more of the following symptoms during a reaction:
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
- Wheezing
- Hives
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach cramping
- A weakened pulse
- Circulatory collapse
Common Food Allergy Triggers
While any food has the potential to cause an allergic reaction, there are nine specific types that are responsible for a majority of people with food allergies, including:
- Peanuts
- Eggs
- Milk
- Wheat
- Shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Soy
- Fish
- Seeds (mustard seeds and sesame seeds are among the most common to cause an allergic reaction)
What Should I Do If I Suspect To Have a Food Allergy?
The best thing that any parents can do is to seek the advice of a specialized provider at San Francisco Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. We begin by working with each new patient to accurately diagnose their food allergen. This process consists of performing several evaluations and tests, such as:
- An allergen skin test
- Blood tests
- Patch testing
- Lung function evaluation
- Examining oral food challenges
- Immune function testing
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Once some or all of these tests has been completed, our specialists will be able to provide individualized treatment options based on your unique results. For more information about this process, or to schedule a consultation with San Francisco Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, please call (415) 362-2614 today!