Food Allergy Testing in Atlanta, GA

While a person can be allergic to any food, approximately 90% of food allergies are caused by only 8 substances. Soy, wheat, milk, tree nuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and peanuts are the most common foods to cause allergies in both adults and children. Food allergies, as with allergies to other substances, can range from mild to severe. Some patients with food allergies may experience a stomach ache or stuffy nose, while others will experience vomiting or difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, can result from certain food allergies in people who are especially sensitive, meaning they must be constantly vigilant about the foods they consume. Appropriate testing can help identify your food allergies and help you protect yourself from potential allergens.

Food allergy testing should only be performed by a certified allergist to ensure your safety. There are a few methods that may be used to determine which foods you are allergic to. The elimination diet is a common method to rule out specific foods that cause allergic reactions by eliminating suspected foods and slowly reintroducing them into your diet one at a time. A skin prick test will place small amounts of allergens into the skin so that your doctor can observe your reaction. An oral challenge test will use either a capsule or injection to see if there is a reaction and provide treatment if there is. A blood test can also be used to check for immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that can indicate that your body has been exposed to an allergy-causing substance. At Columbia Asthma & Allergy, our experienced doctors will help identify your food allergies and provide a customized treatment protocol designed to help you navigate your daily meals without worry.

Minor allergies to certain food items may be controlled with over-the-counter or prescription medications that can reduce symptoms. This may be best for patients with minor reactions such as itching or hives. However, for those with more severe reactions, avoiding allergy-inducing foods may be required and an epinephrine pen may be prescribed for use in the case of accidental exposure. We believe in providing personalized attention and care to each of our patients, no matter how severe their case may be.

If you are interested in food allergy testing in Atlanta, GA for you or your child, contact Asthma & Allergy Center today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced and compassionate allergists will precisely identify allergies and help you learn to manage your symptoms, so you can live your life freely and enjoy your favorite meals without fear.