There are other types of reactions to foods which are different than an IgE-mediated food allergy that can cause anaphylaxis. The symptoms, diagnosis and treatment can vary depending upon the condition. Here are some of them.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is also known as pollen-food allergy syndrome. OAS happens when people with pollen allergies to certain trees, grasses and weeds develop symptoms when they eat botanically related fruits and vegetables. Usually , OAS results in mild allergy symptoms, but symptoms may get worse during pollen season.
As many as one out of every three people with seasonal allergies may experience oral allergy syndrome. The exact number is unclear because the condition often goes undiagnosed. Symptoms can be mild and go away quickly, making it less likely that people will see a doctor for diagnosis. Or parents might not associate a child’s dislike of a vegetable with an allergic reaction.
FPIES
Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, or FPIES, is a severe type of food reaction that affects infants and young children – but it is not similar to food allergies.
FPIES is a non-IgE-mediated reaction to a food protein. Symptoms occur in the gastrointestinal system. FPIES causes vomiting and dehydration that can lead to shock in very severe reactions.
Celiac Disease
People with Celiac disease are unable to eat foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease. It is not an allergy or food intolerance. People with Celiac disease do not go into anaphylactic shock if they eat gluten-containing food. Instead, the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells in the intestines, causing a reaction that is sometimes severe and immediate.
This can severely damage the lining of the small intestine and lead to debilitating symptoms. The condition impacts both children and adults. It is more common among Caucasians and more diagnosed in females.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic condition that occurs when an increased number of inflammatory cells called eosinophils cause swelling in the esophagus – the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach – making it difficult to swallow. In some people, EoE can be triggered by food or by environmental allergens such as pollen and mold – but doctors and researchers are not sure what causes it.
Food Intolerance
A food intolerance involves the digestive system. Due to an enzyme deficiency or chemicals in the food, the meal is not “broken down” correctly in the body and causes stomach distress. With a food intolerance, you may be able to eat small amounts of the food but have problems when you eat a lot of the food.
The most common food intolerance is to lactose intolerance. Lactose is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Some people are intolerant of sulfites or food additives.
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Last updated : 7/15/2020