Food & Drug Allergies
Answers and support for reactions that put your health at risk.
If you’ve experienced hives, swelling, stomach upset, difficulty breathing — or in worst cases anaphylaxis — after eating certain foods or taking medication, you may have a food or drug allergy. While some reactions are mild, others can be severe or even life-threatening — and many people aren’t sure what triggered them in the first place.
At Grand Rapids Ear, Nose & Throat, our specialists help patients identify, manage, and prepare for allergic reactions caused by foods and medications. Whether you’ve had a past reaction or just want to know what to avoid, we’re here to provide clarity and peace of mind.
If you’re concerned about a food or medication allergy, schedule a visit today.
Common Symptoms
Food and drug allergies can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe, including:
- Itching, hives, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
- Wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Anaphylaxis — a severe allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment
- Delayed skin reactions, such as rash or eczema
- Fatigue or brain fog following certain foods
- A severe reaction to certain foods—more than just a sensitivity. This includes common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and other foods that can trigger a strong immune response.
How We Diagnose
Diagnosis starts with a review of your symptoms and reaction history. Depending on your case, we may recommend:
- Skin testing for specific food or drug triggers
- Blood testing to measure IgE (allergic antibody) levels
- Elimination diets with careful reintroduction, when food allergy is suspected
- Graded oral challenges performed under medical supervision to confirm or rule out specific food or medication allergies
- Referral to additional specialists if further testing is required
We’ll work closely with you to determine what’s causing your reactions and how to move forward safely.
Treatment Options
The primary approach for food and drug allergies is prevention and preparation. Based on your diagnosis, we may recommend:
- Avoidance plans — detailed guidance on what to avoid and how to read labels
- Emergency planning — including prescriptions for epinephrine and medical alert tools
- Medication desensitization protocols in specific cases and under specialist supervision
- Dietary counseling — especially for children, families, or those with multiple food sensitivities
- Referrals for oral immunotherapy (OIT) — when appropriate and available
- Biologic therapy — including new FDA-approved options like Xolair (omalizumab), which may help reduce allergic reactions to certain foods in patients who qualify
We’ll work with you to develop a plan that prioritizes safety and improves your confidence in daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
An allergy triggers an immune system response — often immediate and potentially serious. An intolerance typically causes digestive symptoms but is not life-threatening.
Some children outgrow certain food allergies (like milk or egg), but others — like peanut or shellfish — are more likely to persist. Testing and monitoring help guide your care.
Yes — especially for antibiotics like penicillin. However, testing varies depending on the medication and should be done under medical supervision.
We’ll start with a detailed history and use testing and elimination strategies to narrow it down.
If you’ve had a severe reaction or are at risk for anaphylaxis, yes. We’ll help you understand when and how to use it.
Clarity, Confidence, and Safety
If you’re living with food or drug allergy concerns, Grand Rapids Ear, Nose & Throat can help you take control. Schedule an appointment today for expert testing and support.