Dr Cindy Htet of Parkes Street General Practice in Helensburgh is urging the community to be aware of food allergies during Food Allergy Week.

Food Allergy Week runs from 21 to 27 May. It's an initiative of the charity Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia to help foster understanding and protect those at risk. 

A food allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to a food allergen that is usually harmless. The immune system produces allergy antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) that can result in a range of symptoms, from mild to severe.

Dr Htet notes that the symptoms of food allergy can include swelling of the face, lips and eyes; hives or welts on the skin; abdominal pain; vomiting; and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. While food allergies can develop at any age, they are most common in children who are less than five years old. The most common food allergens are cow's milk (dairy), egg, peanut, tree nuts, sesame, soy, fish, shellfish and wheat.

Dr Htet stresses the importance of seeking medical attention if a food allergy is suspected, as there may be other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. It is also essential to avoid exposure to the allergen and to always carry emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, in case of a severe reaction.

The A&AA says Australia has the highest incidence of food allergy in the world, with about half a million Australians living with a diagnosed food allergy and many more undiagnosed. There has been a 7% year-on-year increase in food allergy fatalities over the past 15 years, the charity reports.

The theme for Food Allergy Week 2023 is 'adrenaline injector first for anaphylaxis, asthma reliever second'. 

To make an appointment with Dr Htet, contact Parkes Street General Practice.