Summary of Food Allergy

Food allergy is an abnormal response to a food triggered by your body's immune system.The allergic reaction may be mild. In rare cases it can cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of food allergy include:

• Itching or swelling in your mouth

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps and pain

• Hives or eczema

• Tightening of the throat and trouble breathing

• Drop in blood pressure

When you have food allergies, you must be prepared to treat an accidental exposure. You can only prevent the symptoms of food allergy by avoiding the food.