Food Allergy Symptoms

Food allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, which usually begin immediately or within two hours of eating and include, among others:

• Rash or hives
• Red or itchy skin
• Stuffy or itchy nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy and teary eyes
• Vomiting, stomach cramps, gas, or diarrhea
• Angioedema – a swelling of the lips, mouth lining, or area around the eyes that can be itchy or painful.

Some people with food allergies experience anaphylaxis. You should seek emergency treatment immediately if you experience any anaphylactic symptoms, which include:

• Hoarseness, throat tightness, or a lump in the throat
• Wheezing, chest tightness, or trouble breathing
• Tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or scalp
• Lightheadedness, fainting or a sudden drop in blood pressure