Instah > Allergies > Mushroom Allergy
Mushroom Allergy
Though rare, a mushroom allergy is estimated to affect about 1 percent of the people who suffer from food allergies. Mushrooms, which are a species of fungus, are usually immensely relished by those who eat them. However, people who suffer from mushroom allergy may experience the symptoms if they even come in close proximity to the fungi. Mushroom allergy, like most of the food allergies, is caused due to a special kind of protein found in mushrooms.
People who work in the food industry and packaging of foods are at a higher risk of suffering from this allergy. It is not necessary for a person to always have been allergic to mushrooms. Sometimes, people may suddenly develop allergy from mushrooms. Even those who eat mushrooms regularly may develop an allergy to the fungus all of a sudden.
Allergies to mushroom usually occur through contact during consumption of inhalation of the airborne particles of it. Usually, there are very less chances of developing an allergy to mushrooms after they have been cooked. This is perhaps because the protein to which a person develops an allergy, changes in chemical structure when it is cooked.
Mushroom Allergy Symptoms
Since mushroom allergies are both airborne and through contact, the symptoms are of both airborne allergies and contact dermatitis. Here are some of the common symptoms:
- Itching and burning of the mouth, if the mushroom has been ingested
- Swelling of tongue, lips or mouth
- Itching all over the body, especially those areas where the contact with mushrooms has been maximum
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tightness in chest and breathlessness
- Swelling of throat
- Increased palpitations
A person may also experience dizziness, loss of consciousness, a sudden fall in blood pressure or an anaphylactic reaction. Though this is rare, a person may need to be administered epinephrine or adrenaline injections to prevent such an attack. If not administered on time, the person may go into shock.
Mushroom Allergy Treatment
A lot many times, mushroom allergies are confused with intolerance. If you are suffering from abdominal cramps and indigestion after eating mushrooms, this is due to an intolerance and not allergy. Avoid eating mushrooms if you have either intolerance or allergy from mushrooms.
Anti histamines are usually administered if you experience allergic reactions to mushrooms. For skin lesions, rashes and hives, topical steroids can be used.
Related posts from Past:
