What is the first treatment tried for food allergy?

Food allergy is an immune reaction to a food. Reactions can include hives, swelling, vomiting, wheezing, throat tightness or dizziness. Until reviewed, avoid the suspected trigger and check ingredient labels carefully; do not test the food again at home after a significant reaction.

Allergy Testing may be considered with a detailed reaction history. Testing is interpreted with symptoms because a test result alone does not prove that a food causes reactions. A clinician can explain whether an emergency medicine or written action plan is appropriate.

Record what was eaten, how much, when symptoms began and which symptoms occurred. Tell family, school or workplace contacts about the suspected food and the agreed response. Keep prescribed emergency medicine accessible and check how to use it. Read the Food Allergy information page for practical avoidance and planning guidance.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, collapse, or symptoms affecting more than one body system after eating. Use prescribed emergency treatment promptly according to your action plan. Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment is time-critical; do not wait to see whether symptoms settle.

Which food should I avoid while this is assessed? Do I need Allergy Testing? What symptoms mean I should use emergency medicine? How should I explain the plan to people who care for me?