What You Really Need to Know…

Allergies are incredibly common, yet they are often misunderstood. At The Devon Allergy and Digestive Health Clinic, we frequently meet clients who have been misinformed about allergies—what they are, how they develop, and how best to manage them.

Let’s bust some of the most common allergy myths and set the record straight with the facts.

Myth 1: Allergies and Intolerances Are the Same Thing

❌ Myth: Food allergies and intolerances are interchangeable terms.
✅ Fact: They are completely different. A food allergy involves the immune system and can be life-threatening (e.g., anaphylaxis), while a food intolerance usually involves the digestive system and tends to cause discomfort like bloating or gas. Proper testing is crucial to distinguish between the two.

Myth 2: You Can’t Develop Allergies as an Adult

❌ Myth: If you didn’t have allergies as a child, you won’t develop them later in life.
✅ Fact: Adult-onset allergies are on the rise. It’s not uncommon for someone to develop new allergies to foods, pollen, or environmental triggers in their 30s, 40s, or beyond.

Myth 3: A Negative Test Means You’re Allergy-Free

❌ Myth: One negative test result means you definitely don’t have an allergy.
✅ Fact: Allergy testing is nuanced. Timing, type of test, and even recent antihistamine use can affect results. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive testing and consider your full symptom picture.

Myth 4: All Allergies Cause Immediate Reactions

❌ Myth: If you don’t react straight away, it can’t be an allergy.
✅ Fact: Some allergic reactions are delayed (especially certain food allergies), showing up hours or even a day later. These can be harder to pinpoint without professional guidance.

Myth 5: Natural or Organic Foods Can’t Cause Allergies

❌ Myth: If it’s natural, it’s safe.
✅ Fact: Allergens can be found in natural, organic, and even “clean” foods. For example, nuts, eggs, and shellfish are common natural allergens. It’s not about how the food is produced, but how your immune system reacts to it.

How We Can Help

At The Devon Allergy and Digestive Health Clinic, we specialise in helping people identify and manage allergies and intolerances through expert testing, analysis, and personalised support.

If you’re struggling with symptoms like rashes, bloating, fatigue, or sinus issues, and suspect an allergy could be to blame, don’t leave it to guesswork. Book a consultation and take the first step towards clarity and better health.

💬 Ready to uncover the truth about your symptoms?
Book your consultation today ➜