Do You Have Food Allergies or Sensitivities? How to Tell & How They Affect Your ENT Health

Food allergies and sensitivities are common but often confused due to overlapping symptoms. Food allergies trigger immune responses and can lead to serious reactions, affecting the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) system, such as throat swelling or congestion. In contrast, food sensitivities mainly affect the digestive system with milder symptoms but can still cause issues like sinus congestion. Understanding the difference is key to managing symptoms and knowing when to consult an ENT specialist.

What are Food Allergies?

Food allergies typically develop during childhood but adults can still develop them later in life. People with a family history of allergies are more at risk of developing one (or more) as well.

Food allergies are an immune system response and occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food substance as a threat. In response to fight off the threat, the immune system releases a chemical called histamine resulting in common allergy symptoms like:

• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling of the lips, throat, or tongue
• Skin rash or hives

If someone has food allergies, even a small amount of a certain food will trigger a reaction. In some severe cases, the symptoms can be life-threatening. A severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis which is life-threatening and can be fatal if not treated with emergency medication like epinephrine.

Food allergy symptoms happen quickly. Symptoms will typically appear within 30 minutes to two hours after consuming the food trigger, even if it is only a small amount.

There are eight types of food that account for about 90% of all food allergies:

• Milk
• Peanuts
• Shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Wheat
• Fish
• Soy
• Eggs

Food allergy diagnosis

An allergy test provides an accurate diagnosis of food allergies through methods like a skin prick test or blood test. These tests reveal how the immune system reacts to specific foods. In addition, your doctor will consider your symptom history and may ask about your family’s allergy history to provide a comprehensive diagnosis.

What are Food Sensitivities?

Food sensitivities, also known as food intolerance, is a reaction of the body’s digestive system to certain foods that your system cannot process, break down, and digest. Some people may have a sensitive gut and therefore cannot tolerate certain foods.

Food intolerance results from the body’s lack of particular enzymes that should help the digestive system process and digest certain foods and ingredients. This lack of enzymes causes unfavorable reactions. These symptoms are unfavorable, yes, but are far less serious than the symptoms of a food allergy reaction. These symptoms include:

• Stomach pain
• Upset stomach
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Nausea

Food sensitivities can also have an impact on ENT (ear, nose, and throat) health, particularly for individuals who already have respiratory or sinus issues. When the body struggles to process certain foods, inflammation in the digestive system can affect other areas, leading to discomfort in the sinuses, throat, and ears.

For example, individuals with food sensitivities may experience increased mucus production, which can aggravate sinus congestion and nasal drip. This can lead to a variety of ENT-related symptoms, such as: Nasal congestion

• Sinus pressure or headaches
• Post-nasal drip (leading to sore throat or coughing)
• Ear congestion or pressure
• Increased risk of ear infections due to fluid buildup

In the case of food intolerance, it is possible for people to eat a small amount of the food trigger and not have to suffer the symptoms. They can also take proactive measures to prevent them from happening in the first place. Symptoms of food intolerance occur within a few hours after consuming the food, typically as the food is processed and digested.

Food sensitivity diagnosis

Diagnosing food sensitivities is challenging. While lactose intolerance can be confirmed with a hydrogen breath test, other food sensitivities are usually diagnosed through symptom tracking and elimination diets.

You can keep a food diary with details of your meals and symptoms to determine what particular foods don’t sit right with your digestive system.

Food Allergies vs Sensitivities: The Key Differences

Here is a summary of the key differences between food allergies and sensitivities:

Food Allergies

Food Sensitivities

A reaction of the immune system

A reaction of the digestive system

The body’s immune system sees a harmless item as a threat and overreacts

The body’s digestive system cannot process and digest certain foods

Symptoms can be life-threatening and even fatal

Symptoms are less serious and not life-threatening

Symptoms can occur within minutes

Symptoms occur within a few hours

Common symptoms include inflammation, breathing difficulties, swallowing difficulties, and skin rash

Common symptoms include diarrhea, stomach pain, an upset stomach, and gas

Even a small amount of food can trigger symptoms

Consuming a small amount of food may not cause symptoms

Don’t Ignore Allergies or Sensitivities to Food

Food allergies and sensitivities can significantly impact your ENT health and shouldn’t be ignored. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, ear infections, or sinus pressure may be linked to certain foods. Allergy testing, including skin prick tests or blood tests, can help identify triggers. If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, consulting with your healthcare provider is crucial. They can help you manage your symptoms, determine food-related triggers, and improve your overall ENT health.

‍Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.