Food Allergies
Food allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to certain proteins found in foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, sesame, fish, or shellfish. Reactions can vary widely, from mild itching or hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
The allergists at The Medical Group of New Jersey specialize in the accurate diagnosis, education, and management of food allergies. Their goal is to help patients and families live safely, confidently, and with a clear plan for both prevention and emergent situations.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Allergic reactions typically appear within minutes to several hours after eating the offending food. Your allergist will review your diet history, timing of symptoms, and prior reactions to help identify likely triggers.
Common symptoms include:
- Itchy skin, hives, or swelling of the lips and face
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting during severe reactions
Important: Wheezing, difficulty breathing, throat tightness, or fainting require immediate emergency care. Call 911 right away if these symptoms occur.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis combines a detailed medical history with targeted allergy testing to confirm the allergy and rule out other causes, such as food intolerance or sensitivity. Your allergist at The Medical Group of New Jersey may recommend:
- Skin-prick or blood testing to detect food-specific IgE antibodies
- Oral food challenge (OFC) — the gold standard for diagnosis, performed under medical supervision when results are uncertain
- Cross-reactivity assessment to evaluate whether related foods (for example, peanuts and tree nuts) pose additional risks
Treatment & Ongoing Management
Food allergy management focuses on education, avoidance, and emergency preparedness. Our allergists provide hands-on training and practical guidance to help patients stay safe at home, school, and while dining out.
- Strict avoidance: Learn to read ingredient labels carefully and prevent cross-contact during food preparation.
- Epinephrine auto-injector: Always carry two devices and ensure you, your family, and caregivers know when and how to use them.
- Emergency action plan: Review and share with family members, school staff, and employers.
Treatment with Biologics
Long-Term Outlook
With expert care and regular monitoring, many children outgrow milk, egg, wheat, or soy allergies as their immune systems mature, while nut and seafood allergies tend to persist into adulthood.
Your allergist will schedule routine re-testing to track progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. With education, preparation, and ongoing support, patients and families can live confidently and minimize the risk of serious reactions.