Food allergy - page 3

Pharmacist's advice

For people with food allergies, carefully reading labels and preparing food at home are of crucial importance. Preparations such as antihistamines serve exclusively to alleviate mild symptoms (such as a runny nose or a mild rash) that arise due to the accidental intake of trace allergens. They must never be used as preventive protection that would "allow" you to intentionally consume food to which you are allergic. In children, if you notice swelling of the tongue, shortness of breath (wheezing in the chest), or a sudden drop in blood pressure (dizziness), these are signs of anaphylaxis and require immediate medical attention, not preparations from a home pharmacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I take medicine and then safely eat the food I am allergic to?
No. No antihistamine or supplement can completely block a severe allergic reaction. Allergen avoidance is the only safe way to prevent a reaction.

2. Will my child outgrow the food allergy?
Many children successfully outgrow allergies to milk, eggs, and soy as they grow up. However, allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood usually remain present throughout their lives.