Photos of Common Food Allergy Symptoms

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives (urticaria) are a common symptom of food allergies. They can appear anywhere on the body.

They can result from any food allergy. But hives are especially likely in people allergic to:

• Peanuts
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Shellfish

When you get hives, you may first notice an itchy patch. Then bumps form and can look like a rash.

These bumps are called wheals. They have well-defined edges. They may be flesh-colored or red.

Wheals can appear, change shape, and disappear very quickly. Also, while most itch, they don't always.

To see if a red patch is urticaria, press the center of a wheal. If it's a hive, it'll turn white (called "blanching").

Hives aren't life-threatening. But they are annoying and uncomfortable.

Eczema

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is an itchy, scaly rash. The inflamed skin can turn into dry patches that flake off.

Food allergies don't cause eczema, but eating certain foods that you're allergic to can trigger or exacerbate eczema. Eating or just touching a problem food can cause a reaction.

Common triggers include:

• Dairy
• Nuts
• Wheat
• Soy
• Eggs

Food allergies aren't the only possible cause—eczema can also be exacerbated by environmental irritants such as pollens or animal dander.

It's most common in babies and often improves as they get older. However, children and even adults may continue to struggle with eczema. In babies, eczema often develops on the face, cheeks, or around the mouth.

Scratching can lead to infection, and healthcare providers recommend swaddling babies or placing mitts on their hands to keep them from scratching.

Itchy Red Eyes (Allergic Conjunctivitis)

Allergies can cause itchy, watery, and swollen eyes. This is called allergic conjunctivitis (AC).

AC is more common in pollen allergies (hay fever) than with food. Still, food allergies can trigger it in some people.

Swelling of the Lips, Mouth, or Tongue (Angioedema)

Angioedema is swelling of the lips, mouth, or tongue. It's similar to hives but occurs under the skin.

This swelling can be a sign of anaphylaxis. Watch for other symptoms, as well.

Food allergies linked with this symptom include:

• Fish
• Shellfish
• Nuts
• Milk
• Eggs

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can occur from a food allergy. Watch for pain, vomiting, and diarrhea within two hours of eating. It often hits within minutes of ingesting a problem food.

It's easy to confuse these symptoms with those of food intolerance. A true food allergy usually involves skin and respiratory symptoms as well. So watch for abdominal pain plus other signs of food allergy.