Sesame allergy is becoming increasingly recognized as a significant food allergy. It occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to proteins in sesame seeds.

Symptoms of a Sesame Allergy:

Sesame allergy symptoms can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. Reactions can occur within minutes or up to a few hours after consuming sesame or products containing it. Some common symptoms include:

• Skin: Hives, itching, rash, eczema, swelling (especially of the face, lips, or tongue)
• Digestive System: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps
• Respiratory System: Wheezing, coughing, runny nose, difficulty breathing
• Oral Allergy Syndrome: Itching or tingling in the mouth, lips, or tongue
• Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, sesame allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. 

Increasing Prevalence:

Sesame allergy is becoming more common, and researchers are still investigating the reasons for this increase.

Management:

The primary way to manage a sesame allergy is to avoid all foods that may contain sesame. This can be challenging, as sesame is used in many different products, sometimes under less obvious names. Careful label reading is essential.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

If you suspect a sesame allergy, it's important to consult with an allergist for a proper diagnosis. They may perform tests such as skin prick tests or blood tests. For severe reactions, especially anaphylaxis, epinephrine auto-injectors (like an EpiPen) are the primary treatment.