Soy allergy is a food allergy to soybeans, a legume used in many different food products. It's more common in infants and young children, and many children outgrow it.

Symptoms of a Soy Allergy:

Soy 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 soy or products containing soy. Some common symptoms include:

• Skin: Hives, itching, rash, eczema, swelling (especially of the face, lips, or tongue)
• Digestive System: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas
• Respiratory System: Wheezing, coughing, runny nose, difficulty breathing
• Oral Allergy Syndrome: Itching or tingling in the mouth, lips, or tongue
• Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, soy 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. 

Soy vs. Soy Intolerance:

It's important to distinguish between a soy allergy and soy intolerance. A soy allergy involves the immune system, while soy intolerance is usually a digestive issue.

Management:

The primary way to manage a soy allergy is to avoid all foods that may contain soy or soy-derived ingredients. This can be challenging, as soy is used in many different products. Careful label reading is essential.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

If you suspect a soy 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.