"Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless ingredient as a threat, triggering a reaction," says Colleen S. Adkins, MD, Allergy and Asthma at ARC Round Rock. "These reactions can range from mild symptoms, like an itchy rash or upset stomach, to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis. While the exact cause of food allergies remains unknown, some allergies that develop in childhood may fade over time, while others persist into adulthood."
Learn more about food allergies.
What are the most common food allergies?
Many food allergies are triggered by a small number of foods. Here are the most common ones:
- Milk: A milk allergy is common in infants and children. It differs from food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, because it involves an immune response that can affect the entire body system.
- Egg: An egg allergy can cause symptoms ranging from mild skin reactions to severe anaphylaxis. Some people are allergic only to egg whites, while others react to both egg whites and yolks.
- Peanuts: A peanut allergy can be severe and may lead to anaphylaxis. Unlike a food intolerance, a peanut allergy affects the immune system and requires strict avoidance.
- Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans): Tree nuts, including almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts, are a common allergen. Many people with this allergy must avoid all types of tree nuts.
- Wheat: A wheat allergy is different from gluten intolerance or celiac disease. People allergic to wheat must carefully check labels for hidden sources of this allergen in their diet.
- Soybeans: Soy is found in many processed foods, making it challenging to avoid. Symptoms of a soy allergy can include hives, digestive issues, and difficulty breathing.
- Sesame: Sesame allergies have become more recognized, and sesame is now considered a major allergen. It can be found in bread, sauces, and processed foods.
- Fish (such as bass, flounder, and cod): A fish allergy is common in adults and can lead to severe allergic reactions. Cooking or even smelling fish can trigger symptoms.
- Shellfish (such as crab, lobster, and shrimp): Shellfish allergies, including reactions to shrimp, crab, and lobster, can be severe. This allergy often develops later in life and usually lasts a lifetime.
"If you suspect a food allergy, an allergist or APC can help with food allergy testing and provide a Food Allergy Action Plan," says Dr. Adkins. "Proper nutrition and a careful diet are key to safely managing food allergies. Avoiding trigger foods while maintaining balanced nutrition helps prevent reactions and support overall health."
ARC Round Rock: Allergy and asthma care for Round Rock and surrounding communities
ARC Round Rock, located at 940 Hesters Crossing Road, offers a convenient location for patients seeking allergy and asthma care in Round Rock as well as those in nearby towns such as Georgetown. ARC Allergy and Asthma physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) are specially trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergies and asthma disorders in patients of all ages.
It's not too soon!
Now is the time to schedule a visit with your ARC Allergy and Asthma doctor or APC to get your child's Food Allergy Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan forms filled out for upcoming activities and the 2025-2026 school year.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Adkins has a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology from The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. She is accepting new patients of all ages. To make an appointment, call ARC Round Rock at 512-244-9024.