Food Allergy Food allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can trigger signs and symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swollen airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.Food allergy affects an estimated 8% of children under age 5 and up to 4% of adults. While there's no cure, some children outgrow their food allergies as they get older.It's easy to confuse a food allergy with a much more common reaction known as food intolerance. While bothersome, food intolerance is a less serious condition that does not involve the immune system.The most common food allergy signs and symptoms include:Tingling or itching in the mouthHives, itching or eczemaSwelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat or other parts of the bodyWheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathingAbdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomitingDizziness, lightheadedness or faintingReference: Mayo Clinic Dr. Belachew is an Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery in Division of Otolaryngology Rhinology and Skull Base Surgery in Connecticut, USA

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