Although some symptoms are similar between food allergy and intolerance, comparing food allergy vs. food intolerance reveals significant and fundamental differences between them, whether in causes, symptoms, or how to diagnose, avoid, and manage each of them.
Negative bodily reactions to certain types of food are common among many individuals, and understanding the difference between food allergy vs. food intolerance is essential. In fact, some reactions occur due to immune-system allergies, known as food allergies, while most others result from food intolerance, a medical condition caused by defects in the digestive system
Food allergies mean that the immune system in some people overreacts to certain foods, and the production of immunoglobulin IgE. It is a medical condition that requires immediate cessation of the offending food and urgent medical care.
Although allergic reactions to food vary from person to person, the most common food ingredients and food allergens for many people include:
The food allergy vs. food intolerance comparison reveals that the onset of food allergy symptoms takes between minutes to hours, while the most common symptoms are:
The main cause of food intolerance is the inability of the digestive system to break down certain foods normally, and this may be due to a deficiency in one of the body’s enzymes, such as the lactase enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down lactose in milk and dairy products. Therefore, its deficiency in the body leads to lactose intolerance.
Most food intolerance signs are related to the digestive system, such as:
Among the food allergy vs. food intolerance comparison, scientists also listed how to diagnose food allergy and food Intolerance, as follows:
Besides the common symptoms, it can be diagnosed via certain food allergy testing, such as:
2. IGE Antibody test
It is a blood test that measures the level of this immunoglobulin, which significantly rises during food allergic reactions.
3. RAST Test
This test helps clarify the types of food to which the patient suffers allergic reactions; therefore, the doctor can guide patients towards appropriate foods and avoid allergens.
The diagnosis of food intolerance usually depends on excluding other conditions. However, the patient may be directed to undergo a breath test to diagnose lactose intolerance or perhaps follow an elimination diet free of foods containing [lactose], for example, and observe his health status. If the symptoms disappear, this is a strong indication of food intolerance, specifically lactose intolerance.
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If you have a food allergy, you must identify the specific foods that trigger your severe allergic reactions accurately and avoid them completely.
If you also have a food intolerance, you should avoid foods that your digestive system cannot break down and digest normally, such as gluten, lactose, or others.
It should be noted that there are some medications that help manage and control the symptoms, such as in cases of lactase deficiency, where they can take tablets containing the lactase enzyme, but only after consulting a doctor.
Symptoms of food intolerance may last for several days but are not life-threatening. However, unfortunately, food allergies can be life-threatening if the patient does not receive immediate medical attention. Therefore, it is essential to see your doctor in the following cases:
The allergist can help you get the best diagnosis, as well as treatment and prevention measures for your food allergies.
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Yes, this can be achieved by identifying the types of foods that cause you allergies and avoiding them.
Yes, besides the common symptoms, some individuals may experience swollen fingers during the allergic reaction.
It is rare because the symptoms of food intolerance appear more often in pain and disorders of the digestive system.
Yes, some individuals with food intolerance may experience headaches.
This depends on the symptoms, some medical tests, and a physical examination by the doctor.
Urgent medical attention must be sought immediately, especially in cases of shortness of breath, hives, and low blood pressure.
Yes, it is possible for some people to suffer from an immune sensitivity to certain types of food and digestive intolerance to certain foods at the same time.
Completely avoid foods that cause you an allergic immune reaction or intolerance
Compare the symptoms of food allergies and food intolerances, have the necessary medical tests done, and consult your doctor to accurately determine your condition.
