A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful and mounts an IgE-mediated immune response. The most common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, sesame, and shellfish. Food allergies differ from food intolerances, which are digestive reactions and do not involve the immune system.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Hives, itching, or eczema flare
- Tingling or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Dizziness or anaphylactic shock (severe, life-threatening reaction)
How We Diagnose
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive medical history and symptom review. Our allergists use skin prick testing, specific IgE blood tests (component-resolved diagnostics), and supervised oral food challenges — the gold standard for confirming or ruling out food allergies — to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions.
Treatment Options
Our management approach includes a personalized written Food Allergy Action Plan, prescription of injectable epinephrine (auto-injector) when indicated, education on allergen avoidance and label reading, discussions about desensitization options including oral immunotherapy and biologic therapy (anti-IgE/Xolair), and coordination with schools, daycares, and healthcare providers as needed.
Ready to Schedule?
A food allergy diagnosis does not have to limit your life. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group today to get the answers and tools you need to stay safe. Call us at (408) 286-1707 or request an appointment online.