Food Allergy Testing & Management in the Bay Area

Food allergies affect up to 8% of children and 11% of adults in the United States and can cause reactions ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. The board-certified allergists at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group provide comprehensive food allergy evaluation, oral food challenges, and personalized action plans to help patients and families live safely and confidently.

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What Is a Food Allergy?

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-ups
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 (a 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 testing, 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 at South Bay Allergy

Our management approach includes a personalized written Food Allergy Action Plan, prescription of injectable epinephrine (auto-injectors) when indicated, education on allergen avoidance and food label reading, discussions about treatment options including oral immunotherapy (OIT) and biologic therapy such as anti-IgE treatment, and coordination with schools, daycares, and healthcare providers when needed.

Schedule an Appointment

A food allergy diagnosis does not have to limit your life. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group today to get the answers, support, and tools you need to stay safe and confident.