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Food allergy

Overview

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Symptoms of a food allergy include itchy skin, wheezing, tummy pain and feeling or being sick. It can happen straight after eating food or days later.

Common types of food allergies include allergies to cows' milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish and wheat.

A GP will refer you to a specialist if they think you have a food allergy. You may have a skin-prick test, blood tests and go on a special diet.

Treatment for a food allergy depends on how severe it is. Common treatments include medicines such as antihistamines and emergency adrenaline.

You can manage a food allergy by checking food labels carefully, carrying emergency medicine at all times, and telling people about your allergy.

A food allergy is where your body reacts to certain foods. It's often mild, but can be very serious for some people.

Page last reviewed: 05/01/2023
Next review due: 05/01/2026