Do certain foods leave you bloated, tired or nauseous, and you’re not sure why? Your first thought might be that you need food allergy treatment, but often, the answer isn’t quite that simple. For instance, what feels like a food allergy could actually be a food sensitivity—and in fact, these two things are not the same. Understanding what a food sensitivity is and how to tell it apart from an allergy can help you determine when it’s time to see your Atlanta allergist.
What Is a Food Sensitivity?
A food sensitivity happens when a food triggers uncomfortable symptoms that do not involve the same immune response that occurs with a true allergy. There is no universally accepted medical definition, and the term is often used interchangeably with “food allergy,” even though they are different. Symptoms are not typically severe, though symptom onset can be delayed by several hours or even days, making it harder to identify the trigger food.
Four Reasons to See an Allergist for a Food Sensitivity
Many at-home food sensitivity tests lack scientific support, so the best way to identify a food sensitivity is to see a board-certified allergist. Here are a few signs it may be time to schedule a visit.
1. You Need to Rule Out a Food Allergy
Because food allergies and food sensitivities can cause some similar symptoms (such as digestive issues), you can further see why the two can be confused. Having a personal or family history of food allergies, asthma or eczema can also point towards a response being an allergy, as opposed to it being a food sensitivity. To help reach a definitive diagnosis, an allergist will first review your symptoms and history to decide whether a skin prick or blood test is necessary.
2. Your Symptoms Are Difficult to Explain
Food sensitivity symptoms can include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headaches and fatigue. Of course, responses can vary for each person, and the delayed reaction makes patterns harder to spot. Your allergist will work with you to identify any symptom patterns that distinguish a food sensitivity from an allergy, an intolerance or a digestive condition.
3. Diet Changes Aren’t Solving the Problem
Attempting to remove foods from your diet to self-diagnose a sensitivity can be overly restrictive, plus it skips the methodical evaluation an allergist would use. When you work with an allergist, they will find answers using a proven diagnostic process featuring food allergy testing with a thorough review of your symptoms.
4. Food-Related Symptoms Are Affecting Your Daily Life
Some food sensitivities can cause frequent discomfort after eating. This recurring cycle of bloating, stomach pain and fatigue can impact everything—your work, school and personal life. Many people, particularly children, may also lose their confidence around food and become fearful of trying new foods. With the support of an allergist, you will have a better understanding of what’s triggering your symptoms, and how to manage them.
Get Help for Food Sensitivities in Atlanta
When you notice symptoms after eating certain foods, our allergists can help determine what’s causing them, then recommend the appropriate response. We provide food allergy testing, diagnosis and treatment at centers throughout the Atlanta area. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
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