What are Food Allergy Rashes?
Food allergy rashes are skin reactions that occur after eating certain foods. The rash may be itchy and red and can occur on any part of the body. Food allergies are caused by an immune system response to a food protein that the body perceives as harmful.
In 2021, it was estimated that 32 million Americans had food allergy rashes, including 5.6 million children.
There are different types of food allergy rashes, each with its own symptoms. The most common food allergy rash is atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy skin.
Food allergies can also cause hives, also known as urticaria. Hives are raised, red welts on the skin that can be itchy or painful. They are often caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication. Other less common food allergy rashes include contact dermatitis and angioedema.
Food allergies are common in children, and most go away on their own. Although this is not always the case, food allergies are generally outgrown in childhood. Food allergies can also develop later in life, but this is less common.