How your allergy doctor in Metairie, and Covington, LA, can help with food allergies
Do you develop a rash, feel nauseous, or have difficulty breathing when you eat certain foods? If so, you could be suffering from food allergies. They are more common than you think. Fortunately, your allergy doctor is an expert at the diagnosis and treatment of food allergies and can help you feel better.
Dr. Alan Sheen provides a full range of allergy services, including food allergy diagnosis and treatment. He has two convenient office locations in Metairie, and Covington, LA, to help you.
The most common food allergies include:
- Shellfish
- Peanuts
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Wheat
- Soy
If you are allergic to foods like those listed above, you may experience:
- A skin rash
- Coughing and wheezing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach bloating and gas
You may also have a more severe reaction, known as anaphylaxis. You will have severe difficulty breathing, making this a life-threatening situation. You need to call 911 if you believe anaphylaxis may be happening.
Your allergy doctor can diagnose food allergies several different ways, including:
Skin testing–placing a small amount of substance just underneath your skin. If you develop a rash, irritation, redness, or swelling, you are allergic to the substance.
Blood testing–sending a blood sample to a lab where it can be tested against different foods and substances.
When your allergy doctor diagnoses what foods you are allergic to, the best way to manage these food allergies is to avoid the food. This isn’t always possible because certain foods, like peanuts, dairy, and soy, may be contained in food and you may not know it.
Your allergy doctor can treat your food allergies with:
- Sublingual immunotherapy
- Allergy injections
Your allergy doctor may also prescribe a rescue inhaler if you have severe reactions to certain foods. Carrying a rescue inhaler with you can help with emergency situations brought on by a severe food allergy.
To find out more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of food allergies, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Alan Sheen. You can reach him in Metairie, LA, at (504) 456-1999, or in Covington, LA, at (985) 246-6077. Call today.