Ep. 111: New Diagnosis – Food Allergy Basics for All Ages
Part of the series: Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast
This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network.
We thank Genentech and Acquestive for sponsoring this episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.
LISTEN TO EPISODE 111:
Just diagnosed with a food allergy and feeling lost?
You’re not alone and don’t have to figure out food allergy life by yourself. We’re here to help you understand food allergy basics: what causes allergic reactions, how to recognize symptoms, and how to manage your allergy safely, every day.
This is the second episode in our Food Allergy Stages Series, and it’s all about building a strong foundation after a new diagnosis. Whether it’s your child, your partner, or you who was recently diagnosed, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta walk through everything you need to know in those early days. From understanding how allergic reactions work to learning about life-saving tools like epinephrine, and new management options like OIT and omalizumab.
Dr. G explains what causes your immune system to misfire, how fast symptoms can appear, and why no two reactions are the same. We also dive into real-life strategies like carrying your epinephrine device, knowing when and how to use it, and navigating social situations. Plus, Kortney shares personal tips that have helped her live safely with food allergies for over 30 years.
What we cover in our episode about managing a new food allergy diagnosis:
What just happened?! We explain what causes allergic reactions, including the roles of IgE, histamine, and mast cells.
Are all allergic reactions the same? Learn how quickly reactions can occur and why symptoms aren’t always predictable.
Why is epinephrine so important? When to use epinephrine, how to use it, and why antihistamines aren't enough.
New options to help manage food allergies. A look at treatments like OIT and omalizumab (Xolair) and why you still need to carry your epi.
Peace of mind with an action plan. What to include in a Food Allergy Action Plan and how to help others take your allergy seriously.
Episode 2 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series
Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.
Episodes we mentioned about food allergies
Listen now! Apple Podcast • Spotify • Amazon Music
More resources about food allergy management:
Episodes mentioned to help build your foundation:
Top takeaways for anyone newly diagnosed with a food allergy
Food allergies involve the immune system.
They’re not the same as intolerances. Your body sees certain food proteins as threats, triggering reactions that can be life-threatening.Epinephrine is the only treatment for anaphylaxis.
Use it at the first sign of a serious reaction—epi first, epi fast—even if you’re unsure. Antihistamines are not a substitute.Carry two epinephrine devices at all times.
You might need a second dose, or the first might not work. Keep them in a consistent spot and make it part of your daily routine.Avoidance is still key, even with new options like Xolair or OIT.
These can offer peace of mind, but they’re not cures. You still need your epi and your action plan.A Food Allergy Action Plan keeps you and others prepared.
It tells people what to do in an emergency and reinforces how serious your allergy is. Post it, share it, and practice it.
Timestamps
Our episode explores the foundation of what you need to know about managing a food allergy.
01:23 What causes allergic reactions
03:21 Reaction timing and severity factors
05:34 Omalizumab and OIT explained
09:28 Why epinephrine matters most
11:10 How to give epinephrine (injection vs nasal spray)
13:27 Carrying epinephrine: tips and why it’s critical
16:09 Why antihistamines aren’t enough
18:20 Recognizing anaphylaxis symptoms
21:23 The “feeling of doom”
22:21 What to do after using epinephrine
24:21 Why carry two epinephrine devices
25:30 What’s a food allergy action plan?
26:50 Should your home be allergen-free?
28:28 Label reading tips
30:23 Mental health and food allergies
