Who Should Take a Food Sensitivity Test? Symptoms and When to Get Tested

Food sensitivities and allergies are becoming increasingly common, affecting millions of people worldwide. If you experience unexplained digestive issues, skin reactions, or breathing difficulties after eating certain foods, you may be dealing with a food allergy.

DME DIAGNOSTICS offers a food sensitivity test panel to help identify specific allergens and guide you toward safer dietary choic. But how do you know if you need one? In this post, I cover the symptoms of food allergies and who should consider getting tested.

What Is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs after eating a specific food. Unlike food intolerances, which primarily affect digestion, food allergies can trigger a range of symptoms from mild to life-threatening.

Common food allergens include:

• Dairy

• Eggs

• Peanuts

• Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, walnuts)

• Shellfish

• Fish

• Wheat

• Soy

If you suspect you have a food allergy, DME DIAGNOSTICS has custom test panels to answer your concerns.

Symptoms of Food Allergies

Food allergy symptoms can vary in severity and may appear within minutes to a few hours after consuming the allergen. Some common symptoms include:

Mild to Moderate Symptoms

• Skin rash, hives, or eczema

• Itchy mouth, lips, or throat

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps

• Nasal congestion or runny nose

Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis Medical Emergency)

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

• Swelling of the throat that restricts airflow

• Rapid or weak pulse

• Severe drop in blood pressure

• Dizziness or fainting

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after eating a particular food, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Who Should Take a Food Allergy Test?

If you experience any of the symptoms above, especially after eating specific foods, a food allergy test may be necessary.

Types of Food Allergy Tests

If you suspect you have a food allergy, DME DIAGNOSTICS offers a FOOD SENSITIVITY TEST PANEL that measures the levels of allergy-related antibodies in your blood.

Conclusion

Food allergies can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening reactions, making early detection crucial. If you experience recurring symptoms after eating certain foods, I welcome you to contact a DME DIAGNOSTICS team member to schedule an appointment. Identifying and managing your allergies can help you lead a healthier, symptom-free life.