gastrointestinal allergy, an immediate hypersensitivity reaction of the digestive system after the ingestion of certain foods or drugs. GI allergy differs from food allergy, which can affect other organ systems. Compare food allergy. See also lactose intolerance. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: Characteristic symptoms include itching and swelling of the mouth and oral passages, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes containing blood), severe abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment includes identification and removal of the allergen. In an acute attack epinephrine may be administered as a stimulant, and muscle relaxants may be given to reduce intestinal spasms that cause abdominal pain. ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: In childhood, GI allergy is most often caused by hypersensitivity to cow’s milk and is characterized by diarrhea and colicky pain, sometimes with vomiting, eczema, respiratory distress, and thrombocytopenia.
