Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Allergies Itching To Know What's What

In every foodie's life rain must fall and they have to restrict their diets. This sometimes come in the forms of allergies. It could be a mild case with a slight rash or the serious, heavy duty kind that could land you in the ER. Some foods can be serious culprits like tomatoes, tuna fish or peanuts. Some can be mild offenders like oranges and chocolate.

What exactly are allergies? They're basically disorders of the immune system that react to allergens in the environment. It could come from plant, food or even insect venom (i.e. bee or wasp bites). Food allergies occur because the body thinks the food ingested is harmful. How do you know when you're having an allergic reaction? Sometimes it could be as simple as an itchy mouth or as complicated as breathing problems. Reactions could also mimic food poisoning or a virus with vomiting and diarrhea. These can sometimes be the beginning of a more fatal kind of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This is where blood vessels are affected by the allergens and lead to a severe drop in blood pressure. If that happens to you or someone nearby , immediately rush them to the nearest ER for prompt treatment.

Food allergies can vary from person to person. They're usually inherited from a parent or grandparent who also suffered from them. There are several different types with the most common being shellfish and nuts. Other allergies could be to wheat, soy, eggs and milk. These are most common in children and they usually outgrow them by their early teen years. Sadly enough any allergies you acquire as an adult stay with you forever. The surest way to an easier reaction free life is know your allergies and stridently remove the foods causing them from your diet.This can be hard if it's some tasty like lobster or fruit. Yet you can substitute other foods for whatever bothers you.

Allergies , like , everything in life, happen. The trick is to know what stuff will cause that rash or stomach discomfort and avoid it. Doing this will save you a lot of grief (and possible avoid a visit to your local ER).

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