Q If my lips swell or I feel short of breath after eating, is that food intolerance or should I go to the emergency room?
A If lip, tongue, or throat swelling, shortness of breath or wheezing, generalized hives, rapid heart rate, and dizziness occur together, it may be anaphylaxis (food allergy emergency) and you should immediately call 119 or go to the emergency room. These symptoms are not food intolerance—they are an allergic emergency.
Detailed Answer
Food intolerance does not involve the immune system, so lip swelling, breathing difficulty, or generalized hives do not occur. In contrast, IgE-mediated allergies to peanuts, shrimp, tree nuts, or milk protein (not lactose) can cause these symptoms within minutes of ingestion. Those prescribed an EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) should inject immediately and then call 119.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Anaphylaxis requires immediate emergency treatment, not Korean medicine treatment. If symptoms remain at the level of simple abdominal discomfort, headache, or fatigue, suspect intolerance and seek an accurate differential diagnosis during your consultation.
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