Food allergy

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Definition

Although many people have bad reactions to certain foods, a true food allergy — a reaction triggered by the immune system — isn't as common as you might think. But, the number of people who have a food allergy is growing. About 2 percent of adults and 6 percent of children have a true food allergy. Far more people have food intolerance, unpleasant symptoms triggered by food. Unlike a true food allergy though, a food intolerance doesn't involve the immune system.

This is little consolation if you've had a bad experience with a particular food and fear a recurrence. But it is an important distinction, because a true food allergy — also called a food hypersensitivity — can cause serious problems and even death.

If you have a reaction to a particular food, tell your doctor about it. Tests can help diagnose a food allergy so that you can take steps to avoid a repeat problem.

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Symptoms