Food allergies can range in severity from minor to extreme and life-threatening. At Newtown Gastroenterology, the skilled team of board-certified gastroenterologists provides food allergy testing to determine what you or your child is allergic to and prevent complications. Call one of the four New York City offices in Elmhurst and Flushing in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, or Chinatown in Manhattan, or book an appointment online today.
Food allergy testing at Newtown Gastroenterology involves diagnostic tests that determine which foods cause allergic reactions in your body. These tests are useful for knowing which foods to avoid or how to best treat your condition. See the Newtown Gastroenterology team at the first sign of food allergies.
Symptoms of food allergies include:
• Hives, itching, or eczema
• Itching or tingling in your mouth
• Face, tongue, lip, or throat swelling
• Nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause life-threatening symptoms, such as tightening of your airway, problems breathing, a drop in blood pressure, a rapid pulse, or loss of consciousness. You might even go into a coma. See the Newtown Gastroenterology team at the first sign of food allergies.
During food allergy testing, the Newtown Gastroenterology team discusses your symptoms, medications, and medical history. They also ask about your family history of food allergies or other allergies. Your provider completes a physical exam and may recommend a skin prick test, blood testing, or an oral food challenge, which gives you small amounts of foods that might be triggering your allergies.
Skin prick testing involves pricking your skin with suspected allergens to see if you develop signs of an allergic reaction. Your gastroenterologist might also ask you to avoid certain foods for a week or two to see if your symptoms subside.
The Newtown Gastroenterology team discusses the results of food allergy testing with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. They may suggest avoiding certain foods, taking medicines to reduce symptoms, or using an epinephrine pen (EpiPen®) if you experience a severe allergic reaction. Carry this pen with you at all times.
Oral immunotherapy involves exposure to small amounts of foods you’re allergic to (under medical supervision) and gradually increasing the food doses over time. The Newtown Gastroenterology team personalizes a treatment plan that best matches your needs and the severity of your food allergy.
Schedule food allergy testing at Newtown Gastroenterology by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.
