Food Allergies: Symptoms

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This information was reviewed and approved by Bruce J. Lanser, MD, MPH (8/1/2015).

Food allergies may cause many different allergy symptoms. Allergic reactions to food usually occur rapidly after eating the offensive food, usually within 30 minutes and almost always within 2 hours of ingestion. Signs and symptoms of food allergy can involve the nose, mouth, stomach, skin, lungs and heart.

  • Skin Symptoms: Include itching, flushing (redness), hives and swelling.

  • Oral/Stomach Symptoms: Include itching, tingling, burning, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Respiratory Symptoms: Include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, throat swelling, wheezing and/or difficulty breathing.

  • Life-threatening, anaphylactic reactions: Include loss of consciousness and stopped breathing. Call 911 immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.

  • Cardiovascular Symptoms: Include lightheadedness, fainting, low blood pressure and shock.


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