We are debunking misinformation for National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we are working to raise awareness about current medical guidelines and interventions.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and its food allergy division, Kids with Food Allergies (KFA), recently hosted a chat with the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) and David Stukus, MD, a member of AAFA’s Medical Scientific Council, to address common misunderstandings about asthma and allergies.

Here are some highlights from the chat:

Q: A food allergy is diagnosed through patient history and testing. Why can’t you just rely on skin or blood tests?

Food allergies are diagnosed by medical history, skin prick tests, blood tests for IgE antibodies, and/or oral food challenges. The most important part is what happens when you eat that food.

A6 Myth: Allergy tests tell you how severe your allergy can be. Truth: Allergy tests are only a guide to determine likelihood of allergy being present, not the severity. #AllergyReady

— AAAAI (@AAAAI_org) May 10, 2023

There are many test kits and methods that claim to diagnose "hidden" food allergies. If you suspect a food allergy, see a board-certified allergist. Avoid these "screening" tests: https://t.co/VuSatuNnB2 #AllergyReady pic.twitter.com/Tw3wa8Zmcf

— KidsWithFoodAllergies (@kfatweets) May 10, 2023

Food allergy tests are NOT screening tests.

False positives are common. Misinterpretation = misdiagnosis = unnecessary avoidance = harm.

The history IS the best test. Skin/blood tests are merely a guide towards likelihood. More info: https://t.co/hiRy6opSzC #AllergyReady https://t.co/gpm4MX4VnL

— Dr. Dave Stukus (@AllergyKidsDoc) May 10, 2023

Q: Do breastfeeding or chestfeeding people need to avoid eating common allergens?

Diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding or chestfeeding do not cause their child's food allergies. Because of this, avoiding foods is not recommended.

A6: Most of the time, breastfeeding moms don't need to avoid common allergens. Diet during pregnancy and lactation does not cause children to develop food allergies. Always discuss with your allergist. Learn more: https://t.co/cEucaoPlhg #AllergyReady @AllergyKidsDoc https://t.co/c5cMFqZAr7 pic.twitter.com/zb9BCMrXdh

— KidsWithFoodAllergies (@kfatweets) May 10, 2023

Q: Should babies be tested before introducing foods?

Babies should not get screening tests before introducing solids. Evidence shows that it's preferred to introduce allergenic foods early – around four to six months when a baby is ready to start trialing solids.

A6: Babies should not get screening tests before introducing solids. Evidence shows that it's preferred to introduce allergenic foods early. Learn more about introducing foods to infants: https://t.co/cEucaoPlhg #AllergyReady @AllergyKidsDoc https://t.co/c5cMFqZAr7 pic.twitter.com/usMFxe6RFW

— KidsWithFoodAllergies (@kfatweets) May 10, 2023

Check out #AllergyReady on Twitter to read the rest of the chat!