Distinguishing between a food intolerance and a food allergyFood intolerance refers to a physical response to a
food that is not an
allergic reaction. It differs from a
food allergy in that it does not involve the immune
system. Medical testing may be required to make the distinction between the
two. Food intolerances and food allergies are treated differently. Differences between food intolerances and food allergies are shown
below. Food allergy symptoms versus food intolerance symptoms | Food allergy symptoms: | Food intolerance symptoms: | | Come on quickly, usually within an hour. | Take longer to appear. | Can be severe, including difficulty breathing and possibly
fatal
anaphylaxis. | Generally are not severe. | May include nausea, vomiting, painful cramping, diarrhea,
and hives or
wheezing. See an illustration of
hives . | Usually are only digestive—nausea, vomiting, painful cramping,
and diarrhea. |
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