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Food allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe reactions that require immediate attention. If you’ve ever had a food allergy reaction, you know how quickly symptoms can appear, and how important it is to find fast relief. Luckily, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help manage mild allergic reactions. In this article, we’ll discuss the best OTC food allergy medications for fast relief and provide tips on how to handle an allergic reaction effectively.

What Are Food Allergies?

A food allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat. This causes your body to release chemicals, like histamine, that can trigger allergic symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild, such as a rash or an itchy mouth, to severe reactions that might include difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. It’s important to note that food allergies can sometimes cause an immediate reaction after ingestion, while in other cases, symptoms may be delayed.

Types of Over-the-Counter Food Allergy Medications

If you're looking for fast relief from food allergies, there are a few types of OTC medications that can help alleviate symptoms. These include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine for more severe reactions. Let’s explore each option in more detail.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are the most commonly used medication for food allergy symptoms. They work by blocking histamine, a substance your body releases during an allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as itching, swelling, and sneezing.

Corticosteroid Creams and Ointments

Corticosteroid creams can be helpful for treating skin reactions, such as rashes or hives, caused by a food allergy. These creams reduce inflammation and help calm the skin irritation.

Epinephrine (Adrenaline)

For those who experience more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, an epinephrine injection is the go-to solution. While epinephrine is not available as an over-the-counter medication, individuals with severe allergies are typically prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) to carry with them in case of emergency.

Epinephrine works quickly to reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis by relaxing the muscles in the airways, allowing you to breathe more easily and stabilising blood pressure. If you have a known severe food allergy, it's essential to always carry an epinephrine auto-injector and use it as directed if you experience anaphylactic symptoms.

Antacid Medications (For Gastrointestinal Symptoms)

Some people with food allergies may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Antacids can help relieve these symptoms by neutralising stomach acid.

How to Choose the Right Food Allergy Medication

Choosing the right food allergy medication depends on the type of symptoms you're experiencing and the severity of your reaction. Here’s a quick guide:

Mild Symptoms: If you’re dealing with mild symptoms such as itching, rashes, or sneezing, a non-drowsy antihistamine like loratadine or cetirizine is likely your best option.

Skin Reactions: For skin reactions like hives or rashes, a corticosteroid cream such as hydrocortisone can provide relief. Be sure to follow the directions for use.

Severe Reactions: If you're experiencing a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis, seek immediate medical attention and use your prescribed epinephrine auto-injector.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms: If you have an upset stomach or heartburn due to a food allergy, an antacid or H2 blocker may help.

Get the Help You Need Today

If you're living in or around Northcote Road, Cobham, Banstead, Cannon Hill, or Wimbledon and suspect you may have a food allergy, don’t wait to get the proper test and advice. Book an appointment for a food Intolerance test at Pearl Chemist Group today. We offer comprehensive allergy testing to help identify your triggers so you can manage your symptoms effectively and safely. Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards better health!