Food sensitivity is a toxic response to food that can arise for a variety of reasons. The term “food sensitivity” is often used interchangeably to describe both food allergies and digestive intolerances. Although their symptoms can be similar, these two conditions are actually very different. Dr. Frank Averill, a board-certified pulmonologist with more than 20 years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, offers the following information on food sensitivity to patients in Clearwater, New Port Richey, Palm Harbor, Trinity, Oldsmar, Safety Harbor, and other nearby FL cities.
When “food sensitivity” refers to a food allergy, it is describing an abnormal immune system reaction to the ingestion of a certain food. In the most severe cases, which commonly involve foods like peanuts, shellfish, and strawberries, the response occurs almost immediately and can include itching, hives, swelling in the throat, and breathing difficulties. As such, a food allergy can be life-threatening, although that is not always the case. Less severe reactions involve more subtle symptoms, such as bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, rashes, fatigue, and headaches, which tend to manifest more slowly and last for a few days to a few weeks.
On the other hand, the term “food sensitivity” is also commonly used to refer to a digestive intolerance, which does not involve an immune system reaction. Digestive intolerances may be caused by:
- The absence of an enzyme that is needed to fully digest a certain food
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Celiac disease
- Food poisoning
- Stress or psychological factors
The symptoms of digestive intolerances are generally less severe than those associated with food allergies and can often be prevented. For example, a patient with a food sensitivity like lactose intolerance may be able to drink lactose-free milk or take lactase enzyme pills to aid digestion.
If you experience a reaction after eating a particular food, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as Dr. Averill, who can evaluate your food sensitivity and determine whether you have a food allergy or digestive intolerance. Patients in Clearwater, New Port Richey, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, Largo, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, and the surrounding Florida area can contact St. Francis today. If you are interested, Dr. Averill, an allergy and asthma expert, can also provide information on other health concerns, including breathing problems and other respiratory disorders.