In many cases, allergic individuals can blame their family tree. Many infants and children with food allergies outgrow their sensitivities. About one third of proven allergies disappear within two years, if the offending foods are avoided. However, some food allergies last a life time. In very sensitive people, even the tiniest amount can be life threatening, so the food should never be eaten again.
Reactions vary from person to person.
Symptoms may appear within seconds or up to several hours after eating the food. In extremely sensitive people, touching or smelling the food may produce an allergic reaction. Most symptoms affect the skin, stomach, or respiratory system, and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, swelling or itching of the lips, mouth, or throat, hives, eczema, redness, sneezing, runny nose, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis. If you think you have a food allergy, a board certified allergist is best suited to make the diagnosis. An evaluation for a suspected food allergy usually includes a detailed history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to detect specific antibodies.