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Allergies

Antihistamines and other medications used to treat seasonal and year-round allergies.

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an abnormal reaction by your immune system to certain foods. Normally, your immune system protects you from germs, but in the case of a food allergy, it mistakenly identifies certain foods as harmful. This reaction can range from mild to serious, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening. It's important to note that a food intolerance is different; it usually involves digestive symptoms and does not involve the immune system.

Symptoms of Food Allergies

Symptoms of food allergies can vary from person to person and may change each time you eat the food. They typically start within a few minutes to two hours after eating. Common symptoms include hives, skin rashes, swelling of the face or lips, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, coughing, wheezing, dizziness, and trouble breathing. In rare cases, a food allergy can lead to a severe reaction called anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency.

Causes and Risk Factors

Food allergies can affect both children and adults. Some children may outgrow their allergies, while adults can develop them later in life. Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing a food allergy, such as having eczema, asthma, or a family history of allergies.

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for food allergies, and the best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid the foods you are allergic to. There are various medicines available to help manage symptoms and allergic reactions, including those for severe reactions. If you have a severe allergy, your healthcare provider may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector, which is crucial to carry at all times.

When to See a Doctor

If you suspect you have a food allergy, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, family history, and medical history, and may conduct tests to confirm the allergy.

Medications used to treat Allergies

Several classes of medication treat allergies. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:

Antihistamines

Antihistamines block the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

Compare prices: Cetirizine Hcl, Diphenhydramine Hcl, Loratadine

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms.

Compare prices: Fluticasone Propionate, Budesonide, Mometasone Furoate

Decongestants

Decongestants relieve nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Compare prices: Pseudoephedrine Hcl, Pseudoephedrine Guaifenesin Er, Fexofenadine Pseudoephed Er

Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

Leukotriene receptor antagonists block substances called leukotrienes that cause allergy and asthma symptoms.

Compare prices: Montelukast Sodium

Mast Cell Stabilizers

Mast cell stabilizers prevent the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells, reducing allergic reactions.

Compare prices: Cromolyn Sodium

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Frequently asked questions

What are common symptoms of food allergies?

Common symptoms include hives, skin rashes, swelling of the face or lips, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, coughing, wheezing, dizziness, and trouble breathing.

What causes food allergies?

Food allergies can be caused by an abnormal immune system reaction to certain foods. Factors such as having eczema, asthma, or a family history of allergies can increase the likelihood of developing a food allergy.

How are food allergies diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves asking about symptoms, family health history, and medical history, along with physical exams and food allergy testing.

What should I do if I have a severe food allergy?

If you have a severe food allergy, it's important to avoid the allergenic food and carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Is there a cure for food allergies?

There is no cure for food allergies; the only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid eating the food you are allergic to.

Compare prices for allergies medications

57 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.

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Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.

Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

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