DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I have struggled with stomach issues for many years. Is it possible my upset stomach can be an allergy or sensitivity to certain foods? I want to feel better, and I am curious about testing that may be available to identify food sensitivities and food allergies.
ANSWER: Gastrointestinal issues are challenging, and it can be difficult to identify what may be causing you distress. It is important to recognize that food allergies and food sensitivities are not interchangeable terms.
A food allergy is the body's immune response where an immunoglobulin E antibody, also known as an allergy antibody, binds to an allergy cell. The allergy cell releases chemicals, namely histamine, that causes a reaction — typically within a few minutes. Though rare, there is the possibility of a delayed reaction of up to two hours after time of contact with the allergen. The most typical allergic reactions include itching, hives, rash, or an anaphylactic reaction, where breathing becomes impaired.
