Poppy seed allergy is one of the most common peanut allergy common among infants and adults. It’s very difficult to avoid this food allergy because most bakery and spicy dishes include proteins of poppy seed.
Reaction triggers when a certain protein comes in contact with body. Your immune system to fight these foreign substances releases antibodies and histamines. The reaction between proteins of poppy seed and histamines results in different symptoms.
You may be allergic to one or more than one protein. If a food item has similar protein like that of your irritant then most probably you’ll get allergy with this food. So you must stay conscious in checking the ingredient’s list of the product.
Poppy has many health and skin benefits. It makes your dish delicious and improves digestion. When you apply poppy seed paste over the skin, it removes impurities and moisturizes dry skin.
Though it has exceptional benefits, for few of them it might just be an irritant.
Poppy Seed Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms of this allergy range from mild to life-threatening. Initially, cases of poppy allergy were rare. But, slowly in recent times the cases are increasing. Because of its nutritional value, many dishes and products use these seeds. Oil extracted from the seeds may trigger allergic reaction.
A study states that, a 16 year boy who inhaled poppy seeds experienced erythema, angioedema, dyspnea and conjunctivitis. Hazelnut, chickpea and poppy seeds showed similarity in skin prick test. In a test conducted to check inhalation of food allergy, poppy seed was not included but it’s a rare case.
So if you’re allergic to nuts, stay away from these items. Check with your doctor before proceeding with the food item.
- Atopic dermatitis, eczema
- Swelling of face
- Itching
- Tingling mouth
- Angioedema of lips
- Swelling of throat
- Hives
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Asthma, Cough, Wheezing
- Anaphylaxis
45-kDa is the notified allergen that triggers allergic reaction.
Diagnosis
Allergic reaction triggers when you repeated consume or contact irritants. In rare cases it can trigger in first contact. One of the easiest ways to prevent poppy seed allergy is to stay away from it. You must check ingredients and ask restaurant authority about the ingredients in the dish if needed.
Discuss with your doctor to know other similar proteins that can trigger allergic reaction.
Consult the doctor for diagnosis. Ignoring and continuous use of poppy seed may lead to severe conditions.
Allergist or doctor will patch test with different ingredients to confirm the specific allergen. For this, he may apply the substances over the skin. Accordingly, you’ll be prescribed medication.
Anti-histamines may give you instant relief from poppy seed allergy symptoms. Ask your doctor for such medication which will give you relief in emergency situation. Let your family and friends know about this sensitive, so that they will avoid serving your food items.