The treatment for food allergies is to strictly avoid the allergenic food, and in case of accidental exposure, the use of rescue medications such as antihistamines and epinephrine (injectable) in the event of anaphylaxis, which is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
There are a few treatment options currently available for food allergies, such as:
- Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) - OIT involves gradually increasing the amount of an allergenic food in a person's diet over time. This can help to desensitize the immune system to the allergen and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) - SLIT involves placing drops or tablets containing small amounts of an allergenic food under the tongue. This can help to desensitize the immune system to the allergen and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
- Epinephrine auto-injector - This is a prescribed self-injectable device that contains a single dose of epinephrine, a medication that can help to stop an anaphylactic reaction. It's important to carry one of these with you at all times if you have a known severe food allergy.
- Antihistamines - These medications can help to relieve symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling. They are usually taken orally, but they can also be taken in the form of a cream or lotion.
It's important to note that while these treatments may help to reduce the severity of allergic reactions, they are not a cure for food allergies.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 1/27/2023