Food Allergies on the Rise in United States

Peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, sesame. Some people may enjoy all these foods, but to some, they can cause severe and even deadly reactions.

Dr. Erin Rohman is a board-certified Allergist and Immunologist at the Cookeville Allergy, Asthma, and Sinus Center.

“We do know food allergies are on the rise and the frustrating part is we don’t really know why yet. It is estimated that about six percent of the American population now has food allergies,” Rohman said. “It is also true though that most people who think they have a food allergy may not actually.”

Food allergies present themselves in various ways, Rohman said. Some people may not know they have an allergy, Rohman said.

“I think gastrointestinal symptoms, like vomiting or diarrhea, might be a symptom a patient doesn’t recognize as a food sensitivity,” Rohman said. “And I also think worsening of eczema, so a rash that gets worse when you eat certain foods. A lot of people do not attribute that to a food allergy or food sensitivity.”

Food allergies can cause severe reactions called anaphylactic shock. Those in anaphylactic shock can stop breathing.

“The important thing to know about anaphylaxis is that it can be fatal and it can be fatal quickly,” Rohman said. “So, if you already know you have anaphylaxis and you have your Epi-pen, or if a family member or a classmate has an epi-pen available, that should be used sooner rather than later. It’s always best to first give the epinephrine and then seek medical attention.”

Although some may never have an allergy, it is still important to understand the severity of allergies, Rohman said.

“I think most importantly, they should be aware that food allergies can be life-threatening and it is important to take those seriously,” Rohman said. “And if a friend or family member should tell you that they are having symptoms it is important to get them help quickly.”

May 13 through 19 is Food Allergy Awareness Month.