Enjoying a glass of wine is a very popular way to spend quality time, either with friends or alone, with a good book or movie. For some in the world, no meal is complete without a glass of red or white wine. Wine however, can be a cause of allergic reactions in some individuals.

An allergy is caused by a trigger, usually harmless, which induces the body to see it as a threat, an overreaction in other words. Allergic reactions may include dizziness, lethargy, vertigo, headaches, rashes itchiness and shortness of breath. Stomach aches and difficulty in breathing can also be caused by allergic reactions.

Wine is fermented fruit juice, usually grapes. Grape itself is able to ferment without the addition of sweeteners and other substances, just yeast. Yeast acts as a converter, utilizing the sugar in grapes and turning it into alcohol. Wine also contains sulfites or sulfur dioxide. Sulfur dioxide is used as a preservative. The antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties of sulfur dioxide ensure that bottled wine retains its freshness. Sulfite is placed in wine to increase shelf life as well as to preserve the taste.

There are therefore several possible culprits if you develop allergic reactions when drinking wine; the fruit fermented alcohol, yeast and sulfite. To narrow it down, a series of steps can be followed to isolate the culprit.

Testing to see if alcohol is the trigger is quite difficult since most of the symptoms of wine allergy are also characteristic signs of a bad hangover. To see if alcohol is the trigger, imbibe liquor (distilled alcoholic beverage) and observe if any allergic reactions occur. Please do not get drunk as this will induce a hangover which will confuse the results. A reaction to liquor would mean that you are adversely affected by alcohol.

If liquor is not the culprit, the next step would be to see if yeast is. Drinking beer will test this hypothesis. Beer contains alcohol and grain-derived substances. If you suffer adverse reactions from drinking beer, consult a doctor as this may be a case of gluten sensitivity, if not, let us look at the other two suspects.

Testing for sulfite as a source of your wine allergic reaction is easy; just eat apricots. Apricots contain more sulfites than a glass of wine, thus if you can eat apricots with no adverse reactions, then the culprit probably the last suspect: the fruit itself.

To test this, obtain a fruit, get the juice and apply it to your skin. If redness occurs, then it’s positive that you are allergic for that particular fruit. If not however, try drinking the fruit juice. If it still did not give you an allergic reaction, then there must be some other culprit.

If the allergic reactions persist when you drink wine and after testing for the individual components by drinking liquor, beer, eating apricots and swabbing yourself with fruit juice, consult a doctor. It may be a combination of factors, or some other cause that a simple internet article cannot help you with.

Drinking wine is an integral part of some cultures and an enjoyable pastime in many. To develop an allergic reaction to wine would be less than pleasant. Watching your friends laughing and having a good time, enjoying the warm, fruity taste of wine while you sip that tepid glass of water can be very depressing. If you do exhibit symptoms of an allergic reaction when drinking wine, consult a doctor and be sure to explain why you think you had an allergic reaction and not a bad hangover. It is the details which you supply which may help the doctor determine the cause and the severity of the reaction and point you to which corticosteroid or anti-histamine to take. Unless of course you want to just stop drinking wine, an option which for many would be considered blasphemous.

References:

• J. Robinson (ed) 2006 The Oxford Companion to Wine Third Edition, pp. 355–356 Oxford University Press

mango

Mangoes are one of the most delicious of tropical fruits. Regardless of what color it is, from bright yellow, scarlet red to unripe green, mangoes have captivated many. Whether eaten ripe for its tangy sweetness, or unripe for its shockingly sour flavour, mangoes have become a favorite by many individuals. Eating mangoes however can be a very debilitating experience when one has mango allergy. Allergy to mangoes has become much more common recently, and has prevented many from enjoying this wonderful fruit.

Although a seasonal tropical fruit, the advent of global trade has ensured that mangoes can be available even in temperate regions all year round. It can be bought at local food stalls, grocery stores and malls. Mangoes or Mangifera indica belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. This family is also home to such rash causing plants as poison ivy and poison sumac.  Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac all contain the compound urishiol, which induces a severe allergic reaction particularly on the skin (contact dermatitis).  This produces the incredible itching sensation felt when one encounters poison ivy. This compound can be found in the sap and peel of mango fruits, making people sensitive to this compound have allergic reactions. Those with allergies to pistachios and cashews must also be cautious when eating mangoes as all three are related.

Mango allergy can be a bane to those who cherish this marvellous fruit. The various nutritional benefits of mangoes, from its high fiber and vitamin content to the other beneficial compounds present in it that help improve the immune system makes eating mangoes not just an enjoyable act but also a healthy one.

Signs and Symptoms

Contact of the mango peel, leaves and stem with the skin can induce allergic symptoms. These symptoms can also be experienced if one were to ingest mangoes. Allergic symptoms from mango allergy may appear minutes to hours upon ingestion. The first sign is usually irritation of the skin around the lips, cheeks and an itchy feeling on the upper portion of the inside of the mouth. Blisters and redness may occur in this region as well as in other parts of the body like the hands, feet and groin. Itchiness all over the body may accompany these cases. In much more extreme mango allergic reactions, stomach pains, headaches and vertigo have been noted. Contact with the mango peel can be avoided by careful peeling of the mango while wearing gloves. This would prevent any urishiol from coming into contact with both the individual’s skin and with the portion to be eaten.  Some people appear to be allergic not to the peel or sap but to the hairs surrounding the mango seed.  The hairs in this seed may trigger an immune response that would cause allergic symptoms. Carefully slicing the mango to avoid obtaining hairs can be a difficult but for some a worthwhile solution. Use two knives (one for peeling and one for slicing) to better avoid having an allergic reaction to mangoes.

Tests and Treatments

Confirming if one has a mango allergy is easy. An allergy specialist (allergist) can give a test, usually involving application of mango sap unto your skin to gauge the severity of the reaction. Typical treatments usually involve Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and other antihistamines if the mango allergy induces swelling and respiratory response and corticosteroids when dermatitis sets in.  If the case is severe, avoidance of the fruit itself is usually recommended.

Learning more about the symptoms and conditions that provoke an allergic reaction is the first positive step towards managing it. Individuals with mango allergies need not fret. With proper precaution and with the help of an allergist, mango allergy can be managed and the fruit still be enjoyed.

References:

• Oka K, Saito F, Yasuhara T, Sugimoto A. (2004). A study of cross-reactions between mango contact allergens and urushiol. Contact Dermatitis 51 (5–6): 292–6.
• Susser, Allen (2001). The Great Mango Book. New York: Ten Speed Press

Nickel coins

Signs and  Symptoms

With the high probability that one would encounter nickel during the course of day to day activities, it comes as no surprise that having an allergy to nickel can be a great annoyance. From eating, bathing, daily financial transactions to fashion, perhaps no other metal permeates our lives as completely as nickel.  Nickel allergy induces contact dermatitis in individuals in the presence of nickel. When one touches the flush lever made of nickel, or dons a pair of nickel alloy earrings, or when handling a nickel plated pot, dermal contact with nickel can lead to a body response. Contact dermatitis or skin allergy is a very common occurrence with nickel allergy occurring in a large percentage (~30%) of the UK population. Rashes on the skin, redness, itchiness and in some cases swelling can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment. Extreme cases could result in scarring and disfigurement.

The first sign of an individual having nickel allergy is itching in a region that has had some contact with this element. These are usually the hands, areas where jewelry is worn, or the arms and fingers. Rashes follow after some time, with an increasing intensity of the itch felt. In sensitive areas like the ears and hands, frequent scratching may result in wounds and scars. In cases of nickel allergy in pierced regions of the face, it may cause an unseemly appearance. Piercings in the lips and tongue could lead to inflammation and soreness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nickel allergy usually comes after patch testing. Once contact dermatitis symptoms have been established, a patch is prepared by a healthcare provider containing spots of different dissolved elements and compounds. This is then applied topically (to the skin) and observed for any reactions. A further confirmatory test would then be undergone to specify nickel as the primary allergen.

Prevention and Treatment

Nickel allergy can be prevented by avoiding nickel. Although it sounds so simple, the propensity of nickel in our daily lives makes it almost impossible to totally avoid coming into contact with nickel. Nickel in lipstick, bra clasps, food and razors make avoiding nickel difficult. Some use gloves to handle coins and utensils. A woman in the United Kingdom applied nail polish to all her nickel coated jewelry and other nickel containing utensils.

Nickel allergy symptoms can be alleviated by corticosteroids, either applied as cream or taken orally, and antihistamine to relieve itching.

Conclusion

Nickel allergies are a common worldwide occurrence especially in industrialized countries. As the number of individuals with nickel allergy increases, so does the number of “nickel-free” utensils and metalwork. Being aware of object with nickel can prevent someone with nickel allergy from triggering it. Proper care, as well as coming up with ingenious ways to avoid touching nickel may allow one to still live a normal lifestyle.

References

• Das, K. K.; Das, S. N.; Dhundasi, S. A. (2008). Nickel, its adverse health effects and oxidative stress. Indian J. Med. Res. 128: 117–13
• Levy, Andrew. 2010. Housewife with nickel allergy forced to coat everything in nail varnish to protect herself. Dailymail retrieved at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1269494/Nickel-allergy-forces-housewife-coat-nail-varnish.html#ixzz1SABIX5pW

Sources of Gluten

What is Gluten?

For many in the world, eating wheat derived products is a commonplace normal activity. For some, however, those who have gluten allergy, eating wheat is a debilitating scenario. Gluten is a composite of two proteins, gliadin and glutelin, which, together with starch can be found in the seed coat of grains belonging to the grass family. Gluten is usually a good source of protein all throughout the world. To obtain gluten, the wheat is usually washed to remove the water soluble starch, thus retaining gluten. Other processes include kneading when in dough form, or mechanically separating starch from gluten using machinery and washing off to improve purity.

Gluten is utilized in bread products, affecting both texture and taste of the bread. It improves the bread’s ability to rise and is necessary in some bread recipes. It also imbues bread with protein it would not otherwise have. Gluten has also been used as a substitute for meat, particularly in broth where gluten absorbs the flavors of other ingredients as it grows harder by cooking.

Gluten Allergy

An allergy is defined as the body’s over response to certain stimuli or allergen. This leads to the body producing antibodies to counter a perceived threat. One of these threats can be gluten, the allergen for gluten allergy.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of gluten allergy include stomach ails, migraines, vomiting, lethargy and fatigue. Dermatitis and difficulty in breathing have also been observed in those with gluten allergy. However, if we extend the definition to include the occurrence of adverse effects when we take in gluten, not just an allergic response, we have gluten sensitivity, which is much more common and can have other severe effects. One of these is coeliac or celiac disease, a genetic disorder which is triggered by gluten. Celiac disease can result in shortening or reduction of the villi found in the small intestines as well as diarrhea, steatorrhea or oily, loose stool, and weight loss. Accompanying diarrhea episodes are feelings of bloating, distension and even mouth ulcers. Celiac disease can act as a precursor of other, more severe diseases like stomach and intestinal cancer. The reduction of villi also reduces the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to malnutrition. Lack of relevant elements and compounds like iron, calcium, and vitamins can have dangerous effects to the bones, muscles and the body’s hormone functions. it can also lead to an increase in bacterial populations within the small intestine, further inhibiting the body’s absorptive capabilities.

Tests

If a person observes any sensitivity relating to products containing gluten, like rashes and stomach ails, seeing a doctor for diagnosis is a must. A blood test can be performed to test if it simply gluten allergy or celiac disease. An endoscopy is further used to corroborate blood test results. However, both of these tests still can produce false positives, hence tissue biopsy is the most accurate way to separate gluten allergy from celiac disease.

Treatments and Prevention

Regardless if you have celiac disease or just gluten allergy, the best course for you to take is to observe a gluten-free diet. Wheat products like bread, pastry, pasta and others should disappear from your diet. Beer, almost always brewed from barley or wheat is another no-no when it comes to a gluten free diet. If however, you have not been diagnosed with celiac disease and if you can tolerate the allergic response that gluten induce, then you can occasionally partake of these foods and beverages. There are also “gluten free” products available, though caution must always be exercised with such. A disadvantage of a gluten free diet is the lack of some essential nutrients and fiber. This should be offset by alternatively partaking of high nutrient and high fiber foods that don’t have gluten.

Gluten allergy should always be taken seriously. Having it will result to a lifestyle change, yet it may expose you to other much healthier alternatives that will enhance your health.

References:

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Following a Gluten-free Diet. Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Celiac Disease. National, National Institutes of Health. 2008.
• Pat Kendall, Ph.D., R.D. (2003). Gluten sensitivity more widespread than previously thought. Colorado State University Extension.

What is Food Allergy?

Food allergy is an immune response to proteins found in food. Although people can have allergic reaction to any kind of food, there are foods that are more likely to trigger allergic response than others. The most common food allergies, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, include dairy, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies. Food allergy is different from food intolerance (e.g. milk intolerance) and toxin-mediated reactions (e.g. bacterial toxins).

Some food allergies are outgrown by children when they reach a certain age. Soy, wheat, milk, and egg allergies are usually outgrown by children. Peanut allergy is usually not outgrown which is the reason why it is common among adults. Peanut and tree nut allergies are the major causes of allergy-related deaths in the U.S.

Allergic reaction occurs when the immune system mistakenly recognize food proteins as harmful. These proteins are tagged by antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). IgE fools the immune system that the body is under attack by foreign invaders (food proteins) so it initiates an allergic response. In the process, histamine is released in the bloodstream causing the symptoms of food allergy.

What are the Symptoms of Food Allergy?

The symptoms of food allergy vary from person to person. The length of time the symptoms will appear from the time of exposure also vary. It can take as little as few minutes or may take several hours.

Food allergy symptoms in the skin include hives (red, itchy bumps), dermatitis, and swelling (edema). Besides the skin, swelling can also occur in the eyes and lips.

The gastrointestinal symptoms of food allergy include itchy bumps in mouth, metal taste in mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloody stool in infants and children.

In the cardiorespiratory system, food allergy symptoms include runny nose, coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty, blue coloring of lips & skin, weak pulse, pale skin, and fainting. Anaphylactic shock is the most dangerous symptoms of food allergies as well as other allergies. This fatal symptom is marked by a drop in blood pressure, breathing difficulty, serious itching & swelling, loss of consciousness, and coma.

What are the Treatments for Food Allergy?

People with food allergies need to consult their doctor for treatments and advices on how to manage their allergies.

Antihistamine medications are used to treat mild food allergy symptoms such as hives, swelling, etc. However, the dangerous anaphylactic shock should be treated with epinephrine injection.

Antihistamine blocks the action of histamine – substance that causes the noticeable allergy symptoms. Epinephrine reverses anaphylactic shock by improving blood circulation. It narrows the blood vessels to increase blood pressure and heart beat. Since epinephrine is injected directly to the blood, its effects are felt immediately.

Steroids are also used to treat food allergy by calming down the immune system cells. They can be taken orally, through injection, or through nasal spray. Steroids are not recommended in treating anaphylactic shock because it takes time before they take effect. Epinephrine is the appropriate treatment for anaphylactic shock.

People who are prone to anaphylactic shock are advised to bring with them injectable epinephrine (Epi-pen) in preparation for accidental consumption or exposure to food allergens. They are also advised to wear allergy warning bracelets.

What are the Tests for Food Allergy?

Ig-E mediated food allergy can be tested using skin prick test, blood test, and food challenge.

In skin prick test, small substance from food is placed in a small area of the skin pricked by a needle. The appearance of wheal or bump in the skin is considered positive.

In blood testing, IgE antibodies for a specific food allergen or protein are being detected and measured. RadioAllergoSorbent (RAST) test is an example of blood test for food allergy. The good thing about RAST test is its ability to screen hundreds of allergens from just a single sample.

Food challenge to test food allergy involves packaging the suspected food allergen into a capsule, giving it to the patient, and monitor the patient for symptoms of allergic reaction. Due to the risk of anaphylactic shock, the procedure is performed in the hospital environment and in the presence of physician.

Molds produce microscopic spores that are released in air indoor and outdoor. The spores can cause allergy when inhaled by allergic people. The signs and symptoms of mold allergy include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy, watery & red eyes, skin rashes & hives, sinus headaches, nose & throat itching, breathing difficulty, asthma attack, and anaphylactic shock. Because molds are dangerous to human, homeowners are looking for effective ways to get rid of them. A house free of molds is the best prevention for troublesome mold allergy. Following is a list of tips that you can do to get rid of molds inside your home.

• Since molds are found in plants, limit the number of your indoor houseplants. Always check the pot soil and leaves of your indoor plants for molds. If you find molds, remove them immediately.
• Use central air conditioning system with attached high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This filter will trap mold spores before they reach you.
• Objects or surfaces contaminated with molds should be cleaned with diluted chlorine bleach solution. The solution is made by mixing one part household bleach in nine parts of water. For your protection, wear protective gears such as masks and goggles when cleaning the contaminated surfaces.

• Keep moist areas well ventilated by putting exhaust fans vented to the outside. Without moisture, molds will not grow. It is very important to put exhaust fan in the kitchen to remove cooking steam and food vapors.
• Molds love water so repair any plumbing leaks in the bathroom, kitchen, and basements.
• Used dehumidifiers to control indoor moisture. Monitor indoor humidity using hygrometers. Indoor humidity should not go beyond 45 percent. An indoor humidity of 35% is preferable.
• Throw away or burn old books, newspapers, clothes, or bedding. If these things are sentimental to you, put them in storage boxes.
• Clean appliances that produce moisture such as refrigerator, stoves, and washing machine.
• When painting or repainting your walls use paint with mold inhibitor or mix mold inhibitor to regular paint.
• Bathroom carpets that absorb moisture promote mold growth. Replace them with tile or linoleum.
• Never put damp clothes in drawers or closets. If molds grow in the clothes, other clean clothes can be contaminated
• Frequently clean garbage pails.

Uses of Sulfites

Sulfites are chemicals commonly used as preservatives for various foods and medications. Sulfites come in different chemical forms: sodium sulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, and potassium metabisulfite.

When added to food, sulfites have the ability to slow down bacterial growth, giving the food longer shelf-life. Sulfites can also enhance the flavor and freshness of certain foods such as vegetables and fruits. It is because sulfites inhibit oxidation or browning of fresh vegetables and fruits. The browning of seafood can also be prevented by the addition of sulfites.

Sulfites are also naturally occurring compounds in some foods including fermented beverages (e.g. beer and wine), vegetables and fruit juices. Sulfites are also found in nature: in soil, water, air, and living organisms.

Sulfites are added to some medications for their anti-browning and antioxidant properties.

Prevalence of Sulfite Allergy

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is estimated that 1% of the American population is allergic to sulfite. The agency also estimated that 5% of Americans with asthma is allergic to sulfite. It is not yet clear why some people are allergic to sulfite while others are not. The mechanism of the allergic reaction is also not yet known. Allergy to sulfite begins at any period in a person’s life.

Sulfite Allergy Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of sulfite allergy can occur immediately after consuming foods/drinks containing significant amount of sulfite or after inhalation of fumes containing sulfite. In some cases, the symptoms occur after minutes or hours of exposure to foods and fumes containing sulfites compounds.

The respiratory symptoms of sulfite allergy include cough, breathing problems or difficulties, sneezing, and runny nose.

Sulfite allergy causes nausea, vomiting, indigestion, stomach upset, abdominal pain, constipation, and vomiting.

Observable symptoms in the skin include skin rashes, itching, flushing, hives or swelling (edema).

Itching or burning sensation can also be felt in the eyes.

Anaphylactic shock is considered the worst symptom of sulfite allergy. Anaphylactic shock involves a dangerous drop in blood pressure, serious breathing problems, loss of consciousness, or coma.

Tests for Sulfite Allergy

The main problem in diagnosing sulfite allergy is the similarity of its symptoms to other allergies like strawberry , peanut, and mold allergy. In diagnosing sulfite allergy, the help of a professional allergist is needed. The allergist will perform some tests to a patient suspected with having sulfite allergy.

Skin test is a common test in diagnosing allergy to a certain substance. In this test, a small sample of sulfite is used to prick or scratch the skin of the patient. If rush, hive, or swelling appear in the skin, the patient may be allergic to sulfite.

With the supervision of a highly experienced physician, an allergist can perform an oral metabisulfite challenge to a patient. The procedure involves giving the patient increasing amounts of metabisulfites to swallow. The physician will then monitor the lung function and other vital signs of the patient. If significant decline in lung function and abnormal changes in vital signs occur then the patient is considered allergic to sulfite.

Treatments for Sulfite Allergy

A person having trouble with sulfite allergy symptoms should seek medical treatment from healthcare providers. Anaphylactic shock is a serious condition that needs immediate medical attention.

Injectable epinephrine is given to patients with severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. Asthmatic patients need the use of inhaled bronchodilator solutions that do not contain sulfites.

For safety purposes, people with severe sulfite allergy are advised to carry injectable epinephrine which can be used anytime allergic reactions occur. Take note that sulfites are not only found in food, they are found in the environment ready to cause trouble. If you have extreme allergy to sulfites, injectable epinephrines can save your life!

Prevention of Sulfite Allergy Symptoms

Prevention is still better than cure. Be knowledgeable on foods and medications that contain significant amount of sulfites. Read the labels of food products to know if they contain sulfites and how much. The FDA gave a mandate instructing food manufacturers to label foods containing more than 10 ppm of sulfites. Foods containing less than 10 ppm of sulfites have not been shown to cause allergic responses even in people allergic to sulfites.

Since the FDA banned the application of sulfites to fresh fruits and vegetables in restaurants, there has been a big reduction of cases involving accidental ingestion of sulfites. However, there are still restaurants serving unlabeled sulfite-containing foods.

Molds are small organisms belonging to the family of fungi – singled-celled or multicellular organisms that reproduce by spores and survive by absorbing nutrients from organic matter. Molds can be found clinging in plant materials such as decaying plants and wood furniture. These plant materials contain cellulose – a type of carbohydrate used as food not only by molds but almost all fungi. Besides from food, molds also need water in order to live and reproduce. Thus, they are found in dump places like the bathroom, basement, carpets, refrigerator surfaces, conditioner units, washing machines, sheetrock, wallboards, dryer vents, etc.

Molds reproduce by producing thousands of microscopic spores – the agents for mold allergy. These spores are released in the air and cause allergy when inhaled. Some people are allergic to mold spores because their immune system recognizes the spores as foreign invaders. To protect the body, the immune system produces antibodies against the spores; in the process allergy symptoms occur.

Molds Known to Cause Allergy

There are thousand species of mold in nature that can possibly trigger allergic reactions. However, only few of these species are available for testing. Allergists have identified species of molds that most likely cause allergic reactions. These molds include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Helminthosporum, Epicoccum, Fusarium, Aureobasidium, Phoma, Smuts, Rhizopus, and Mucor. These molds can be found indoor and outdoor.

Seasonality of Mold Allergy

Indoor mold can occur throughout the year depending on the level of moisture inside the home. Generally, the higher the level of mold outdoor, the higher the level of molds indoor. It shows that the outside environment is the major source of indoor molds.

In colder climates, mold spores begin to fill the outdoor air in late winter, and peaking in the late summer to early fall months. In warmer climates, mold spores can occur in the air year round, peaking in the late summer to early fall months.

Signs and Symptoms of Mold Allergy

Different allergies have almost the same signs and symptoms. It is therefore hard to distinguish what substance or allergen is causing the signs and symptoms. Is it strawberry, sulfite, or peanut causing the symptoms? Tests are needed to confirm allergy to a particular substance.

The signs and symptoms of mold allergy include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy, watery & red eyes, skin rashes & hives, sinus headaches, nose & throat itching, breathing difficulty, asthma, and anaphylactic shock. Additional symptoms can occur. Severe allergic symptoms like breathing difficulty and anaphylactic shock need medical attention because they are life-threatening.

Test for Mold Allergy

The most popular test for allergies is the skin test which is used by allergists for testing mold allergy in patients. Allergists are professional people (mostly physicians) who specialize in allergies and their treatments. In skin test, small sample of mold is pricked or scratched in the surface of the skin. The appearance of allergic reactions like rush and hive is a positive result for mold allergy.

Treatments for Mold Allergy

Antihistamines and decongestants are used in treating the symptoms of mold allergy. They are available over the counter without prescription.

Peanut is a popular food and food additive. Many people enjoy peanut as a snack. It is not only delicious but also very nutritious. It contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Unfortunately, not all people in the world can enjoy peanut because there are those who are allergic to it. Certain substances (allergens) in the peanut can trigger allergic reactions to human. The substances are mistakenly recognized by the immune system as foreign invaders and potentially dangerous. The immune system overreacts by releasing antibodies to fight the allergens. These antibodies trigger the release of certain chemicals in the body that causes allergy symptoms. One of these chemicals is histamine which can affect a person’s respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, and skin.

Signs and Symptoms of Peanut Allergy

• Itchy , red bumpy rashes (hives)
• Redness and swelling around the mouth or face
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Sneezing and coughing
• Wheezing
• Asthma attack
• Fainting
• Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening symptom of peanut allergy as well as other allergies including mold, strawberry, and sulfite allergy. Anaphylaxis is marked by airway constriction, breathing difficulty, sudden blood pressure drop, rapid pulse, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. A person with anaphylaxis should immediately be sent to the hospital for treatment.

The signs and symptoms of peanut allergy occur in minutes or hours after exposure to peanut. Exposure doesn’t only involve eating peanut and peanut-containing foods but also inhaling fumes containing peanut allergens. Inhaling allergens from the air can be much faster in triggering allergic response.

Treatments for Peanut Allergy

For mild symptoms, antihistamine medications are used. Antihistamine tablets can be purchased over the counter with or without prescription. Antihistamine blocks the actions of histamine which are the allergy symptoms listed above.

Severe allergic reaction involving anaphylaxis requires adrenaline shot. Adrenaline is a hormone that works in reversing the symptoms of anaphylaxis. Children and adults have different dosage for adrenaline shot.

People who are allergic to peanuts are advised to carry with them injectable adrenaline so that they are ready for possible exposure. They should know how to use the injectables themselves.

Tests for Peanut Allergy

Allergy to peanut can be confirmed using skin prick test. In this test, a drop of peanut extract is placed on the patient’s skin and then a needle prick is made through the drop. The skin is observed for changes within 15-20 minutes. Positive reaction occurs when the pricked skin becomes red and itchy. Swelling can occur around the red central area. Antihistamines should not be taken on the day of skin prick test because they can block allergic reaction making the test results unreliable.

Blood test can also be performed to diagnose peanut allergy. Blood test measures the amount of IgE antibodies produced as a result of allergic reaction. The RAST (radioallergosorbent test) and ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) tests are among the tests used in measuring blood antibodies.

If the results of skin prick test and blood test still do not prove that a patient is definitely allergic to peanut, a food challenge is performed. The patient will be given foods that may or may not contain peanuts. The patient will be closely monitored for 15 to 30 minutes. If allergic reactions are observed after eating peanut-containing food, then it can be concluded that the patient is indeed allergic to peanut.

Managing Peanut Allergy

While avoiding whole peanuts is relatively easy, avoiding peanut-containing foods is quite hard. Peanuts are added to bread, cookies, cakes, confectionaries, cereals, spreads, and different snacks. To prevent accidental consumption of peanut-containing foods, always check the labels. Usually, peanut is listed as main ingredient in food products. Beware also on foods that use peanut oil as ingredient.

Peanut-free foods can be contaminated by foods containing peanut or peanut oil. Contamination occurs in buffets, delicatessens, or bakeries where it is easy for food to be touched by peanut-containing foods. Allergic people should avoid eating in such places.

Make sure that you tell your condition to people who are going to prepare your food. These people can be your mother, siblings, relatives, friends, or restaurant cooks.

Do not eat foods you are unsure about.

Latex is a milky white liquid produced by rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis. It is used to make more than 40,000 rubber products such as shoes, tires, gloves, balloons, condoms, diapers, sanitary pads, rubber toys, pacifiers, baby-bottle nipples, waistbands, adhesive tapes & bandages, catheters, medical equipments, and many more. Latex products are ubiquitous nowadays. They are found at homes, offices, schools, hospitals, and other public places. Natural latex is one of the most important human discoveries because of its many uses.

The ability to trigger allergic reactions in humans is one of the drawbacks in using latex products. Latex contains specific proteins that act as allergens – substances that cause allergy symptoms. Allergy occur when our immune system mistakenly recognize latex proteins as threats to the human body. Antibodies are produced by the immune system to fight the “invaders”. In return, the antibodies trigger the release of chemicals (e.g. histamine) that cause the allergy symptoms.

What causes latex allergy? Who are at risk of latex allergy?

The exact cause of latex allergy is not known but experts say that a person’s repeated exposure to latex increases his/her risk of getting latex allergy. People who have repeated exposure to latex are rubber industry workers and health care workers. Health care workers such as dentists, physicians, nurses, medical technologists, laboratory technicians, and veterinarians frequently use latex gloves and equipments to perform their jobs. It is estimated that 5-10% of health care workers have some form of latex allergy. An estimated one percent of the US population is allergic to latex.

Other people who are at risk of developing latex allergy include: children with spina bifida & congenital urologic disorders; individuals who underwent multiple surgical operations; individuals with family history of allergies, and; individuals with certain food allergies. Allergies that run in a family can be explained by genetics. The inheritance of certain genes predisposes an individual to develop allergy to certain substances like latex proteins. Food proteins can have similarities to latex proteins that cause allergy. This is the reason why people who have latex allergy may also have food allergies and vice versa.

What are the signs and symptoms of latex allergy?

Latex allergy symptoms can be delayed or immediate. Delayed allergy symptoms are those that occur 12 to 24 hours after exposure to latex allergens. Immediate allergy symptoms are those that instantly show of after exposure.

Delayed allergic reactions to latex are not life-threatening and appear only at the sites of contact with latex product. The symptoms consist of itchy, red and swollen rashes in the skin.

Immediate allergy reactions are severe and life-threatening. The symptoms include hives, itching at the site of contact or entire the body, wheezing, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock is the most dangerous symptom of latex allergy. The symptoms include breathing difficulty, dangerous drop in blood pressure, decreased lung function, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, weak pulse, and loss of consciousness.

Take note that latex allergy symptoms are similar to the symptoms of peanut, strawberry, hair dye, mold, and sulfite allergies.

What are the treatments for latex allergy?

For mild allergic reactions like itching and rashes, antihistamine is used. Antihistamine blocks the action of histamine – the chemical that causes the itching and rashes. Antihistamines can be purchased over the counter with or without prescription.

For anaphylaxis, injectable adrenaline is used. Since the adrenaline is released directly to the bloodstream, it will take effect immediately. Take note that individuals with anaphylaxis need immediate medical attention to prevent death.

How to manage latex allergy?

Having latex allergy can be very difficult considering that latex products are extremely common today. Nevertheless, avoidance of latex exposure is the best way to prevent allergic reactions.

People who are allergic to latex should tell their health care providers (doctors, dentists, nurses) about their condition so that they will use non-latex gloves and other latex-free medical supplies.

Knowledge of latex products is important to avoid accidental exposure. If possible, make a list of latex products and familiarize yourself with them.

People who have immediate latex allergy symptoms like anaphylaxis should carry with them an emergency epinephrine syringe. Wearing Medic Alert bracelet is also highly advised.

What are the tests for latex allergy?

Having allergic reactions after exposure to latex products is the first indication of latex allergy. However, it is possible that other non-latex proteins in the products are causing the allergic reactions. To test if latex is causing the symptoms, other tests should be performed such as skin test and blood test.

In skin test, a latex extract is applied to a prick or scratch in the skin. Positive result occurs when rash or swelling occur in the skin after few minutes of observation.

In blood test, the level of the antibody immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the blood is measured. IgE is produced during allergic reaction. Increased level of IgE in the blood can indicate latex allergy.

Sources and Further Reading

• Latex Allergy Symptoms. Retrieved from MayoClinic.com
• Latex Allergy. Retrieved from ClevelandClinic.org
• Latex Allergy Symptoms. Retrieved from About.com
• Latex Allergy. Retrieved from MedicineNet.com