Understanding What Causes Food Allergies in Easy Words
Have you ever eaten something and suddenly felt sick, itchy, or got a rash? If yes, you might have a food allergy. Many people don’t know what causes food allergies, but it’s important to understand. Food allergies can affect children and adults. They can make simple meals dangerous.
At Institute Cosmetique, our expert doctors — Dr. Azim Jahangir, Dr. Amna M Raaj, and Dr. Saima Malik — help patients every day understand and manage food allergies. You can visit us at 190 DD CCA, next to Jamia Mosque, DHA Phase 4 Sector CCA, DHA Phase 4, Lahore, 54000. Let’s learn how food allergies work, what causes them, and how to stay safe.
What is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy happens when your body thinks certain food is dangerous. Your immune system tries to fight the food, even if it’s safe. This causes allergic reactions like swelling, rash, or stomach pain.
How Common Are They?
Food allergies are becoming more common around the world, including in Pakistan. Children often have them, and while some grow out of them, others live with them forever.
Main Causes of Food Allergies
1. Your Immune System
Your immune system is your body’s defense system. It protects you from germs. But sometimes, it gets confused and attacks food by mistake. This starts an allergy.
2. Family History
If someone in your family has allergies, you might get them too. This means food allergies can run in families.
3. Gut Problems
Your stomach breaks down food. If the stomach lining is weak, food can pass into your blood. Your body may think this food is bad and react with allergy symptoms.
4. Environment Around You
Where you live matters. If you’re around smoke, dust, or pollution, your body may become more sensitive. This can lead to allergies.
5. Introducing Foods Too Late or Too Early
Some babies do not get certain foods early enough. Later, their bodies treat those foods as threats, causing allergies.
Foods That Commonly Cause Allergies
1. Milk
Cow’s milk is one of the top causes, especially in babies. It’s different from lactose intolerance.
2. Eggs
Egg allergies are also common in children. Some may react to just the white or the yolk — or both.
3. Peanuts and Tree Nuts
Peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and other tree nuts can cause serious allergic reactions. Even touching them can be risky.
4. Seafood
Fish and shellfish like shrimp or crab can cause strong reactions in adults. Many people are allergic their whole life.
5. Wheat and Soy
These are found in many foods. If you’re allergic, you must read food labels carefully to avoid them.
What Happens During an Allergic Reaction?
Mild Symptoms Include:
Itchy skin
Red rashes
Belly pain
Vomiting
Loose stools
Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis):
Swollen lips or face
Hard to breathe
Fast heartbeat
Feeling dizzy
Passing out
If this happens, it’s an emergency. Get help fast.
How Are Food Allergies Found?
At Institute Cosmetique, our experienced doctors use several ways to find food allergies. Dr. Azim Jahangir, Dr. Amna M Raaj, and Dr. Saima Malik will guide you step-by-step.
1. Asking Questions
Doctors ask about your meals, past reactions, and your family’s allergy history.
2. Skin Prick Test
A small amount of food is placed on your skin. If your skin gets red or itchy, you may be allergic.
3. Blood Test
Blood is tested to see if your immune system reacts to certain foods.
4. Food Elimination
You stop eating a food for a while and slowly add it back in to see if it causes problems.
5. Food Challenge in Clinic
You eat a tiny bit of the food under doctor care. They watch to see if you react. This test is safe and very accurate.
How to Treat Food Allergies
1. Avoid the Food
The best way to stay safe is to avoid the food that causes the allergy. Read labels and ask questions when eating out.
2. Use Medicines
Antihistamines: Help mild symptoms like itching.
Epinephrine (EpiPen): Helps with serious reactions. Always carry it with you if you have severe allergies.
3. Try Immunotherapy
This special treatment helps train your body to stop overreacting. Our doctors, including Dr. Saima Malik, offer this safely at our clinic.
4. Make a Safety Plan
Tell your family, friends, and teachers what to do if you have a reaction. Practice using your medicine.
Smart Tips to Stay Safe
1. Read Every Label
Food products change often. Always check ingredients, even if you’ve bought it before.
2. Ask Before You Eat
At restaurants or parties, ask what’s in the food. Avoid foods with hidden ingredients or unknown sauces.
3. Tell People About Your Allergy
Let your friends, family, and teachers know. Show them what signs to look for and how to help.
4. Wear an Allergy Bracelet
This helps doctors or helpers know what’s wrong if you can’t speak during a reaction.
5. Visit Institute Cosmetique Regularly
Regular checkups can help you manage your allergy better. We are located at 190 DD CCA, next to Jamia Mosque, DHA Phase 4 Sector CCA, DHA Phase 4, Lahore, 54000.
Myths About Food Allergies
Myth 1: Allergies and Intolerance Are the Same
False. Intolerance means you can’t digest something. Allergies are about the immune system and can be very serious.
Myth 2: Adults Don’t Get New Allergies
False. Adults can get food allergies, even if they’ve eaten the food before without problems.
Myth 3: A Small Bite Won’t Hurt
False. Some allergies are so strong that even one bite can be dangerous.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you feel itchy, get hives, or feel sick after eating, it’s time to see a doctor. Don’t wait. Visit us at Institute Cosmetique. We have top allergy experts like Dr. Azim Jahangir, Dr. Amna M Raaj, and Dr. Saima Malik to help you find answers and feel safe.
Why Trust Institute Cosmetique?
We care for each patient like family. Our clinic uses the best tools and tests to find and treat food allergies. You’ll get expert help from friendly doctors.
? Visit us at: 190 DD CCA, next to Jamia Mosque, DHA Phase 4 Sector CCA, DHA Phase 4, Lahore, 54000
Stay Safe by Understanding Food Allergies
Food allergies are serious. But when you understand what causes food allergies, you can avoid danger and live happily. Learn the signs. Avoid risky foods. Keep your medicine close. And visit expert doctors who care.
Institute Cosmetique is always here to help you and your family. Don’t take food allergies lightly. Get checked. Stay safe.
