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Food Allergy vs. Food Sensitivity: Which One Is More Serious?
Healthy Lifestyle
Tue Nov 21 2023
We just need a reason to gorge on lip-smacking food, to the last morsel and last sip. Sometimes, just licking the bowl clean. But, eating too much food beyond your appetite leads to food allergy and food sensitivity. What’s the difference, you ask? If you’re alien to any of this, you’ve landed on the right place. Dive in!
Both food allergies and food sensitivities can cause discomfort and have the potential to be serious, but they differ in their severity and immune response.
Food allergies involve the immune system's overreaction to specific substances in food. These reactions can occur immediately after consuming the allergenic food and can range from mild symptoms like hives and itching to severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Allergies are typically triggered by small amounts of allergenic food and can be diagnosed through specific allergy testing.
On the other hand, food sensitivities, also known as food intolerances, typically involve difficulty digesting certain foods rather than an immune response. The symptoms of food sensitivities are generally less severe than those of allergies and often take longer to manifest. Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Food sensitivities can vary from person to person and are often influenced by factors like the amount of food consumed and individual tolerance levels.
Both conditions require attention, but the potential severity of a food allergy, particularly an anaphylactic reaction, makes it generally more serious than food sensitivity. Allergies can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention, including the use of epinephrine. In contrast, food sensitivities may cause discomfort and inconvenience, but they don't typically pose an immediate threat to health.
It's important to note that if you suspect you have a food allergy or sensitivity, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and guidance on managing your condition. They can perform appropriate tests to determine the nature and severity of your condition and help you develop an appropriate management plan.
Food Sensitivity:
Symptoms:
- Digestive issues: Individuals with food sensitivity may experience symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation after consuming certain foods.
- Skin reactions: Itchy skin, hives, eczema, or swelling of the lips, face, or tongue can be common symptoms of food sensitivity.
- Respiratory symptoms: Some people may develop wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath after consuming specific foods.
- Headache and migraines: Individuals with food sensitivity may experience chronic headaches, migraines, or brain fog after eating trigger foods.
- Joint pain: Joint pain or swelling can be associated with food sensitivity, especially in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Fatigue and mood changes: Feeling tired or experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or irritability after consuming certain foods can be indicative of food sensitivity.
Causes:
- Immune system response: Food sensitivity is often caused by an abnormal immune system reaction to certain components present in foods, such as proteins or carbohydrates.
- Food intolerances: Some individuals may lack certain digestive enzymes needed to break down specific food components, leading to digestive symptoms and other reactions.
- Leaky gut syndrome: A condition in which the lining of the intestines becomes more permeable, allowing undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response.
- Food additives: Some individuals may be sensitive to artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or other additives commonly found in processed foods.
- Cross-reactivity: People with existing allergies may experience food sensitivity due to cross-reactivity, where the immune system recognizes similar proteins in different foods.
Food Poisoning:
Symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting: One of the most common symptoms of food poisoning is sudden onset of nausea followed by vomiting.
- Diarrhoea: Watery or bloody diarrhea can occur due to food poisoning, often accompanied by stomach cramps and abdominal pain.
- Fever and chills: Some types of food poisoning can cause an increase in body temperature, leading to fever and chills.
- Muscle aches and weakness: Generalized muscle aches and weakness can be experienced with certain types of food poisoning.
- Headache and dizziness: These symptoms can occur along with food poisoning, particularly with severe cases.
- Dehydration: Excessive vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can manifest as dry mouth, decreased urine output, and thirst.
Causes:
- Bacterial contamination: Consuming food contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, or Campylobacter can cause food poisoning.
- Viral infection: Viruses like norovirus or rotavirus are common causes of food poisoning, often transmitted through contaminated food or water.
- Parasitic infection: Parasites like Giardia or Cryptosporidium can be ingested through contaminated food or water, leading to food poisoning.
- Toxins: Ingesting toxins produced by bacteria, such as botulinum or Staphylococcus.
Manipal TRUtest offers a wide range of diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy. You can easily schedule a blood test through our WhatsApp Chatbot, Mobile App, or Website. We also provide the convenience of a Home Sample Collection, where a highly qualified phlebotomist will visit you in the comfort of your own home.
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Food Allergy Profile
Food Allergy Profile Test for Understanding Food Sensitivities
The food allergy profile test is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to identify specific food allergens that may be triggering allergic reactions in your body. Common symptoms of food allergies include rashes, digestive issues, difficulty breathing, and swelling. Identifying the cause of these reactions is essential for effective management and prevention of further complications.
At Manipal TRUtest, the food allergy panel test price is affordable, ensuring everyone has access to accurate allergy testing. This test evaluates your body's immune response to various foods by detecting specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. It covers a wide range of allergens, including dairy, nuts, seafood, grains, and fruits, making it an essential tool for individuals experiencing unexplained allergic reactions.
Booking your food allergy profile test with Manipal TRUtest is simple and hassle-free. We also offer convenient at-home testing services, where a skilled phlebotomist collects your blood sample at your residence. Results are delivered quickly, allowing you to take timely action.
Understanding your food allergies can significantly improve your quality of life. Take charge of your health by scheduling the food allergy panel test today at Manipal TRUtest and enjoy transparent pricing and precise results tailored to your needs.
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