What to Do if You Suspect a Food Allergy Many people think they have food allergies. But according to experts, only 5% of children and 4% of teens and adults really have an allergic reaction to certain foods.

If you think you have a food allergy, it’s important to find out. Food allergies can be dangerous. These strategies can help you know if you truly have a food allergy.

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See a Doctor

It's better to see an allergist than to try to diagnose a food allergy yourself. Why?

• You may be missing out. You may think you're allergic to a certain food when you're not. Cutting it from your diet can make you miss important nutrients.
• You may misdiagnose. The doctor can figure out if you have a food intolerance -- meaning you can’t digest certain foods -- or if you are really allergic. The difference is important. Intolerances can be uncomfortable and challenging to live with. Allergies can be life-threatening. Whichever you have, the good news is your doctor can offer advice on how to feel better. It may take more than one test to accurately diagnose your allergy.
• You could have a more severe reaction next time. Mild itching or tingling in your mouth could evolve into more serious symptoms. Your doctor can prescribe medications to treat symptoms. This may include an epinephrine shot (Auvi-Q or Epi-Pen), which can stop a life-threatening reaction. Always carry two shots with you if your doctor prescribes them. Do not hesitate to use the epinephrine auto-injector, even if your symptoms do not appear to be allergy related. Using the auto-injector as a precaution will not harm you

Your doctor will ask questions like:

• What foods did you eat before you had symptoms?
• What symptoms did you have?
• How soon did they come on and in what order?
• How long did they last?
• Have you had a reaction like this before?
• Does anyone in your family have allergies?

The doctor may also do a skin test to see if your body reacts to a tiny amount of the suspected allergen or allergy trigger.