Onion Allergy
Onion Allergy Symptoms
Reactions to onions can be internal or external. External reactions usually result from direct contact with onions or the smell of onions, while internal reactions result from ingestion of onions. Symptoms of onion allergy may appear at different times. In some people, symptoms may appear in a very short time, while in some people, there may be no symptoms for 24 hours. The severity of onion allergy symptoms may also vary from person to person. While some people have very mild symptoms, others may experience life-threatening symptoms.
Symptoms of onion allergy are as follows:
- Rash and flaky appearance on the skin,
- Hives,
- Tiredness,
- Itching,
- swelling of the lips,
- mental disorientation,
- difficulty breathing,
- Swelling in various parts of the body,
- Swelling,
- Gas and a lot of burping,
- Fainting,
- Asthma,
- Diarrhea,
- reflux,
- Nausea,
- Sore throat,
- Swelling in the eyes and face,
- swelling in the mouth,
- Burning sensation in the mouth,
- tongue blisters,
- Anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylaxis is a very serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis, that is, allergic shock, can cause coma or even death.
Foods That May Cause Onion Allergy
If you are allergic to onions, you may also be allergic to foods and plants that have a similar protein structure to onions. This situation is called cross reaction.
Some foods that may contain onion and cause onion allergy include:
- Garlic,
- Leek,
- chives,
- Stye,
- Fresh onion,
- Prepared meat broths,
- Pre-prepared sauces,
- Pre-prepared soups,
- Frozen chicken and turkey,
- onion juice,
- Most processed or canned meats,
- unless otherwise noted Flavored cheese,
- especially Mexican cheese onion powder,
- Garlic powder,
- saltine crackers,
- Pre-made pizza dough.
People with onion allergies may also need to avoid plants belonging to the Amaryllidaceae (amaryllis) plant family.
- Some plants of this family are:
- lily varieties,
- Daffodil,
- tulips,
- Purple Emotion,
- globemaster allium,
- gladiator allium,
- corkscrew allium,
- wild onion,
- wild chives,
- rock onion,
- Easter lily.
Onion Allergy Diagnosis
If you experience onion allergy symptoms, you should see an allergist. Your allergist will clearly determine whether you have an onion allergy through a series of tests and methods.
Common methods used to diagnose onion allergy are:
Skin prick test: In this test, a very small amount of onion allergen is placed under your skin and this area is observed for 15-20 minutes. If there is redness or blistering in this area, it can be concluded that you have an allergy.
Blood test: In this test, a specific IgE blood test is performed and the amount of antibodies is measured to determine whether your symptoms are due to onion allergy or hypersensitivity to onion.
Elimination diet: In this diet, food that is suspected of causing allergy is removed from your food list and symptoms are carefully observed. Then, the suspicious food is gradually added to your food list and your symptoms are monitored.
Onion Allergy Treatment
Treatment of your onion allergy may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms. The most effective method for treating food allergies is to stay away from that food. However, the extensive use of onions may make it difficult for you to stay away from them. Your allergist may recommend using an antihistamine medication to relieve the symptoms of onion allergy and provide relief. These medications do not prevent the allergic reaction, they only reduce the symptoms of the reaction. You can use an ointment recommended by your allergist to reduce itching and inflammation. Your allergist may prescribe an adrenaline auto-injector for use in severe symptoms of onion allergy, such as anaphylaxis. Your allergist will give you detailed information about the situations in which this syringe should be used and how it should be used.
