Some patients may outgrow their symptoms. However, patients suffering from a food allergy should be evaluated yearly by their allergist to determine if it is safe to eat the suspected allergic food.

The best treatment for food allergies is to avoid the food that causes the allergy. When that isn’t possible, you can use medicines such as antihistamines for mild reactions and the medicines in an allergy kit for serious reactions.

• Start by telling your friends, family, and coworkers that you have a food allergy, and ask them to help you avoid the food.
• Read all food labels, and learn other names that may be used for food allergens.
• If your baby has a milk or soy allergy, your doctor may suggest that either you change the formula or feed your baby only breast milk. Specially prepared formulas are available for infants who have soy and milk allergies.
• If you or your child has mild allergies, your doctor may suggest non-prescription antihistamines to control the symptoms. You may need prescription antihistamines if over-the-counter medicines don’t help or if they cause side effects, such as drowsiness.
• If you have a severe allergic reaction, you may receive your first treatment in an emergency room or by an emergency personnel. You may be given a shot of epinephrine to stop the further release of histamine and to relax the muscles that help you breath.