Food Allergies-Updates for Nurses: An Updated Review

Gamash, Khadejah Mohammad Abdullah; Galal, Samsiyah Abdallah Mousa; Arif, Laila Ahmad  Abdullah; Musayri, Fatimah Hassan Mohammed; Gamash, Sana Mohammed Abdullah; Mogri, Nalah Ebrahim Hussein; Aqili, ‏Khadija Issa Muhammad; Alhariri, Manal Hassan; Alqahtani, Ibtihal Abdulwahed Yahya; Hussen, Elham Hassan Ali; Ali Basha, Haya Mohammed; Kinani, Hanaa Mohamed; Gmash, Reham Ahmad; Qimash, Rafif Ahmed; Awaji, Shikha Hamad Ahmad

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2024.344320.10978

	Food Allergies-Updates for Nurses: An Updated Review
Egyptian Journal of Chemistry
Volume 67, Issue 13, December 2024, Pages 1773-1779 PDF (423.55 K)
Document Type: Review Articles
DOI: 10.21608/ejchem.2024.344320.10978
Authors
Khadejah Mohammad Abdullah Gamash¹; Samsiyah Abdallah Mousa Galal¹; Laila Ahmad Abdullah Arif¹; Fatimah Hassan Mohammed Musayri¹; Sana Mohammed Abdullah Gamash¹; Nalah Ebrahim Hussein Mogri¹; ‏Khadija Issa Muhammad Aqili¹; Manal Hassan Alhariri¹; Ibtihal Abdulwahed Yahya Alqahtani²; Elham Hassan Ali Hussen¹; Haya Mohammed Ali Basha¹; Hanaa Mohamed Kinani¹; Reham Ahmad Gmash¹; Rafif Ahmed Qimash¹; Shikha Hamad Ahmad Awaji¹
¹Nursing, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
²Technician Nursing - Nursing and ‏Midwifery ‏Management at Jazan Health Cluster‏, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
Abstract
Background: Food allergies are a significant public health concern, affecting individuals globally with varying clinical manifestations. These allergies primarily involve immune-mediated responses to specific allergens and are categorized as IgE-mediated, non-IgE-mediated, or mixed reactions. Nurses play a pivotal role in identifying, managing, and educating patients about food allergies. Aim: This review aims to provide an updated understanding of food allergies, including their pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management strategies, emphasizing the essential role of nurses in patient care. Methods: This review consolidates current literature on the epidemiology, immunological mechanisms, and clinical implications of food allergies. It examines specific allergic reactions, including oral allergy syndrome (OAS) and alpha-gal syndrome, and explores strategies for early diagnosis and management. Emphasis is placed on the administration of epinephrine and education regarding anaphylaxis and biphasic reactions. Results: Food allergies are increasing globally, with significant implications for health systems. Common allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and dairy. Anaphylaxis, the most severe allergic reaction, is often life-threatening and requires prompt intervention. Biphasic anaphylaxis and alpha-gal syndrome are emerging concerns necessitating heightened awareness. Nurses are critical in identifying symptoms, administering epinephrine, and educating patients about preventative measures and emergency care. Conclusion: With rising global prevalence, food allergies demand comprehensive care strategies. Nurses are uniquely positioned to mitigate risks through early detection, effective intervention, and patient education. Strengthened training and awareness among healthcare providers are essential to improving outcomes.
Keywords
Food allergies; anaphylaxis; oral allergy syndrome; alpha-gal syndrome; epinephrine; patient education

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