Caffeine is included in common drinks like coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, cocoa and energy bars. But, few hypersensitive people may experience caffeine allergy symptoms when they ingest these food substances.
Caffeine is known to stimulate nervous system. Coffee is most renowned drink, which includes caffeine. Reports state that around 1.4 billion cups of coffee is consumed everyday around the world. Anyway, only few people are aware of its intolerance and allergic reaction.
Caffeine Allergy Symptoms
A person who is hypersensitive to caffeine can’t efficiently process this substances and results in inflammation. Some people may see allergic reaction soon after ingesting caffeine included food or drinks. In other cases, it may take more than couple of weeks to see adverse reaction.
Depending on the person, allergic reaction may vary from person to person. Mild signs of allergy can be treated by oral or topical medication. Severe symptoms need immediate medical attention.
A study shows that people who’re sensitive to caffeine experienced anaphylaxis condition. This reaction is triggered due to lack of some genes that can break the caffeine, thus it builds up.
Mild and severe symptoms
- Skin rashes, hives, eczema and itching
- Tingling sensation on tongue
- Swelling of throat
- Anxiety
- Lack of concentration
- Extreme jitters
- Headaches and migraines
- Sneezing
- Angry and bad mood
- Depression
- Muscle pain
- Numbness in face and feet
- Difficulty in breathing
- Cold and flu
- Cold sweats
- Vision problem
- Hallucinations
In some cases people who even touch or inhale food substance may experience allergic reaction. In this case, food that include small amount of caffeine can stimulate allergic reaction.
Diagnosis
As soon as you see uncommon signs after ingesting caffeine or drinks that include this substance, consult allergist for diagnosis. Most food allergies share similar symptoms, only practicing allergist can conduct skin prick test and confirm the allergen.
In some cases, people avoided the wrong food substance and continued consumed allergy causing items.
One of the best ways to treat food allergy is to avoid eating the particular food and stop consuming drink that include it.
Apart from food and drinks, caffeine is included in personal care products. It’s recommended to check the ingredient’s list before purchasing a product.
Products with caffeine
To reap its benefits, caffeine is included in many foods and drinks. It’s not possible to include the complete list here.
- Coffee
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tea drinks
- Tea bags
- Cocoa beans
- Ice creams
- Chocolate drinks
- Dark chocolate
- Candies
- Store brand soda
- Headshot energy bars
- Chewing gums
You check the complete list here.
Alternative drinks to prevent caffeine allergy
- Apple juice
- Plain water
- Fresh fruit juice
- Low-fat milk
- Unsalted biscuits
In case of severe caffeine allergy symptoms, consult the allergist immediately. Call emergency number in your locality.