The Difference Between Food Allergies and Food Sensitivities: What You Need to Know

Do certain meals leave you feeling unwell, but you’re unsure why? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans struggle to distinguish between food allergies and sensitivities. This confusion can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions or overlooked health risks. Let’s clarify the key distinctions and help you find real answers.

At Lakeside Allergy ENT in Rockwall and Forney, TX, our board-certified specialists bring extensive experience when providing ENT-related treatment, such as diagnosing food-related immune reactions. Using precise testing and a personalized care model, we help patients uncover hidden allergies and confidently manage their symptoms.

Signs of Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities

Understanding how your body reacts to food is the first step to improving your health. Here’s how these two conditions differ:

• Food allergies trigger immune responses: The immune system treats the food as a threat, often causing symptoms like swelling, hives, or anaphylaxis.
• Food sensitivities affect digestion: These reactions don’t involve the immune system and typically cause bloating, gas, or discomfort.
• Symptoms appear differently: Allergies are fast-acting, usually within minutes. Sensitivities often take hours or days to show.
• Severity varies: Allergic reactions can be life-threatening. Sensitivities are uncomfortable but less dangerous.

Recognizing the correct symptoms can guide you to the right diagnosis and treatment approach.

How Allergy Testing Helps Clarify Reactions

Pinpointing the source of symptoms is possible with expert allergy testing. At Lakeside Allergy ENT, we use advanced tools to reveal exactly what’s going on:

• Prick testing identifies immediate allergic reactions: These tests are fast, needle-free, and especially useful for kids.
• Intradermal testing detects low-level allergies: Small amounts of allergens are introduced under the skin for a clearer result.
• RAST blood tests offer precision: These tests are ideal when skin testing isn’t possible or for patients on medication.

With accurate results, you gain clarity and a direct path to relief through evidence-based treatments.

Why Expert Evaluation Matters

Seeing a specialist ensures your symptoms aren’t misdiagnosed or dismissed. Food reactions often overlap with other conditions. Our allergy experts offer:

• Thorough patient evaluations.
• Clear explanations of your results.
• Personalized treatment plans to address root causes.

At Lakeside Allergy ENT, we treat more than allergies — we support your total ENT health.

Find Relief and Take Control of Your Diet

If food has become a daily stressor, we’re here to help you breathe easier. Call 972-771-5443 today to book an allergy evaluation and discover what’s really behind your symptoms.