Allergists tend to agree that food allergies are on the rise in the U.S. and that the type of food that can trigger a dangerous reaction is often difficult to predict.

Immunologist and allergist Daniel Sotares told MD News that reactions to certain foods can occur at any age. He added that while some common food allergens include peanuts, seafood, eggs and milk, the full list of possible allergy-inducing substances is limitless.

In the U.S., approximately 12 million people have some sort of food allergy, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Allergies can cause digestive trouble, swollen lips, hives, rashes or worse.

The Mayo Clinic reports that severe food allergies may result in anaphylaxis, which is a condition of high pulse, low blood pressure and swollen airways. The health agency says that if untreated, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

One fairly common method of food allergy treatment is prevention. Knowing one’s allergies – usually after a series of clinical tests – can mean the difference between life and death.

Likewise, the Mayo Clinic states that a few studies have upheld the use of herbal remedies in treating food allergies. Some individuals may also consider acupuncture and acupressure for symptom relief.