Hives and skin rashes are among the most common symptoms of a food allergy. With the help of food allergy treatments, some skin conditions can be alleviated. However, many people continue to suffer the discomfort of itching and inflammation without seeking guidance from an Atlanta allergist. Let’s examine what hives are, along with the food allergies that cause such symptoms.
What Are Hives?
Hives (or urticaria) are raised red bumps or welts on the surface of the skin. Hives can vary in size from small dots to large patches, and often appear in groups across various parts of the body. In more severe cases, a skin rash could turn into open sores and blisters, bringing considerable discomfort.
5 Common Foods Causing Hives
While almost any food could cause allergy symptoms, a small number are responsible for most skin rashes. Here are some of the most likely causes of hives.
1. Milk
Cow’s milk allergy impacts many infants, often causing an itchy rash and digestive issues. In many cases, a skin rash will appear within minutes of drinking milk.
2. Eggs
Egg allergies are another common allergy affecting children, with symptoms usually starting in infancy. Skin rashes are a familiar sign of an egg allergy, with a study in the National Library of Medicine indicating that atopic dermatitis is most common in children under one year of age.
3. Peanuts
Many people with food allergies will recognize redness and swelling as one of the main peanut allergy symptoms. Severe swelling could be an indicator of anaphylaxis, requiring immediate treatment with epinephrine.
4. Tree Nuts
If your child gets hives or welts (also called wheals) shortly after eating tree nuts like hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios or walnuts, pay close attention to these symptoms. Tree nut allergies are commonly associated with anaphylaxis, so be aware of wheezing, dizziness and severe breathing difficulties.
5. Shellfish
For a person with a shellfish allergy, hives are likely to appear minutes after food consumption, though symptoms might not begin for an hour. An itchy throat and mouth, lip swelling and stomach pains typically accompany a skin rash.
How Do You Treat Hives From Food Allergies?
Hives and skin rashes are signs that your immune system is overreacting to certain foods. And while symptoms are often mild, the threat of severe allergies should not be ignored. Make an appointment with your allergist for food allergy testing and advice on managing the issue. With potential treatments including antihistamines, corticosteroids, epinephrine – and potentially, oral immunotherapy treatment – your allergist can find a solution that protects your long-term health.
Professional Food Allergy Treatments in Atlanta
Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center helps patients of all ages with food allergy treatments and testing solutions. For assistance with hives and other food allergy symptoms, visit us in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
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