There are loads of myths and misperceptions about allergies. “Many early medical beliefs have been proven to be incorrect as research has advanced,” explained allergist David Stukus, MD, ACAAI member. “Unfortunately, some of these beliefs are still on the Internet, where an astonishing 72% of users turn to for health information.”
Allergies to artificial dyes
There is simply no scientific evidence supporting a link between exposure to artificial coloring and allergies. There may be other connections, to behavioral changes in children and chronic uticaria and asthma, but not allergies.
Vaccines are not for people with egg allergies
Egg embryos are used for vaccines such as flu, yellow fever and rabies. However, it is safe to get the flu shot according to Dr. Stukus, and it helps prevent serious illness.
Home blood tests reveal what your allergies are
These tests might be able to disclose food sensitivities, but that is distinctly different from an allergy. At home screenings are not reliable and often provide confusing or false information.
Highly allergenic foods should not be given to babies, not until one year old or later
There is no evidence to support avoidance of highly allergenic food past four to six months of age. New evidence is actually showing that early introduction of highly allergenic foods may increase tolerance.
I’m allergic to cats and dogs, but hypoallergenic breeds are ok
There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic breed of either animal. Allergens are in saliva, sebaceous glands and perianal glands so it’s not the fur or type of hair that makes a difference. Some breeds are better than others, but none is truly non-allergenic.
An allergy to shellfish means no medical iodine imaging
Since shellfish contain iodine some people have linked it to iodinated contrast used in CT scans. Iodine is not and cannot be an allergen as it is found naturally in the human body.
No bread for gluten allergies
A gluten intolerance is different from a gluten allergy – and a true gluten allergy is rare. Most allergic reactions to bread products are linked to an allergy to wheat, so it’s wheat that should be avoided.
Source: MedicalNewsToday, American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology