Home remedies for food allergy itching

Food allergy can present with itchy skin, hives, mouth symptoms or an itchy throat after exposure. Reactions can change quickly and may involve more than one body system. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can affect breathing, swallowing, alertness or circulation.

Stop eating the suspected food and rinse the mouth. Do not induce vomiting or test the food again at home. If a clinician has prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector for you, use it as instructed for a severe reaction and call emergency services; follow the device plan while waiting for help. An antihistamine may help some mild skin symptoms only when a pharmacist or clinician confirms it is suitable. Record what was eaten, the timing and the symptoms, and arrange allergy testing or specialist advice.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, a hoarse voice, swelling of the tongue, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion or widespread symptoms after food exposure. Do not wait to see whether a home remedy works. Anyone with a suspected severe reaction needs medical observation because symptoms can return.

Could this be a food allergy, and should I have allergy testing? What emergency medicine and written action plan should I carry? Which foods or ingredients should I avoid until the assessment is complete?