Some foods that you are allergic to should remain off your plate to keep you healthy.
Up to 15 million adults suffer from food allergies, and many suffer from severe reactions which lands them in the E.R. A food allergy is defined as an immune response to eating specific foods or food additives. Common symptoms resulting from the food allergy includes hives, skin rashes, stomach pain, nausea, swelling of the throat or face after eating certain foods.
When someone is allergic to a type of food, the immune system reacts to the ingredient as if it were harmful. The most common foods that cause an allergic reaction are:
- Cow’s milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Peanuts
- Shellfish
- Soy
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
If you suspect a food allergy, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible! They will likely give you a skin or blood test to confirm the food allergy, and these tests are typically covered by your health insurance.
While many people label food intolerances or sensitivities as a food allergy, such as celiac disease or sensitivity to dairy products, although these are not true allergies. Therefore, more precautions should be taken by the individual to ensure no consumption.
At this time, there are no medications to manage food allergies. The best way to avoid an attack is to avoid the food item completely, however, an EpiPen (epinephrine) can be carried for those who have life-threatening allergies. This medication allows the individual to improve breathing in the event of a reaction and is usually covered by health insurance.
Food allergies are serious, and those who suffer from allergies should always ask about food options when they are not eating at home! In addition, maintaining proper coverage of health insurance allows the individual to not be drained financially due to an allergy. For all of your insurance policies, suitable for you, your home, and business in Astoria, New York, contact 01 Insurance!