Rice Allergy
Rice, which is considered a basic food source in various parts of the world, is one of the food sources widely used in kitchens. Gluten-free rice is frequently preferred by people with gluten sensitivity, celiac patients and wheat allergies. Although rare, some people may develop a rice allergy. Rice allergy occurs when the body's immune system reacts abnormally to the proteins found in rice. 9, 14 and 31 kDa proteins found in rice are the main proteins that cause rice allergy. Sometimes a small allergen of 60 kDa can also cause rice allergy. The immune system perceives these proteins as harmful and begins to fight them. For this reason, immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are produced and an allergic reaction begins. Just like gluten and wheat intolerances, you may also be sensitive to rice. However, rice allergy and rice intolerance are separate things, and the symptoms of rice allergy can be more serious.
Rice Allergy Symptoms
Rice allergy can have mild to severe symptoms. These symptoms vary from person to person and usually begin shortly after consuming rice.
Symptoms of rice allergy include: A
- topic dermatitis,
- Contact urticaria,
- Hives,
- Eczema,
- skin swelling Itchy rashes,
Gastrointestinal symptoms;
- laryngeal
- edema
- Nausea or vomiting
- abdominal cramps
Diarrhea Respiratory symptoms;
- Asthma respiratory problems,
- Difficulty breathing,
- airway narrowing,
- Anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a very serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis are as follows: drop in blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, difficulty swallowing due to swelling in the throat, loss of consciousness. These symptoms are very serious and to prevent possible life-threatening risks, your allergist may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector that can be used in case of anaphylaxis.
Risk Factors in Rice Allergy
Some risk factors may increase the risk of developing rice allergy. These factors can be detailed as follows:
Age: Babies have a higher risk of rice allergy than adults. Babies with rice allergy may outgrow rice allergy later in life.
Breastfeeding: If the breastfeeding mother is allergic to rice, the breastfed baby may also be at risk.
Geographic impact: Rice allergy is more common in regions where rice is the primary food source. People living in these regions are at risk of rice allergy.
Asthma: A person with asthma has a higher risk of developing rice allergy due to the presence of a large aeroallergen found in rice.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Rice Allergy
If you have rice allergy symptoms, you should see an allergist immediately. Your allergist is the most competent person who can determine whether you have a rice allergy or not with the tests he will perform. Skin prick tests and blood tests are usually used to diagnose food allergies. In a skin prick test, a very small amount of a rice allergen is placed on your skin. Then, a small hole is made or scratched in your skin to allow this allergen to come into contact with your subcutaneous skin. This area is observed for 15-20 minutes. If there is a finding such as redness or blistering in the applied area, it can be concluded that you have an allergy. However, your allergist will still perform control tests. The blood test checks for the presence of immunoglobulin E antibodies in the blood. Allergy is confirmed if this antibody is present in the bloodstream. The tests performed by the allergist may vary depending on your current condition. After the diagnosis is made, the treatment phase begins. The first treatment method for rice allergy is an elimination diet. In this diet, rice and all foods containing rice are removed from your diet. The most effective way to manage and keep allergies under control is to stay away from the substance that causes the allergic reaction, that is, the allergen. Rice is used as the secret ingredient in many foods. For this reason, it would be useful to read in detail the contents of the foods you consume, especially packaged foods. If you wish, you can make a plan with an allergy dietitian to avoid unknowingly consuming a product containing rice. A proper nutrition plan will keep your allergies under control. Your allergist may recommend using antihistamine medication to reduce the effects of rice allergy symptoms and provide relief. These medications do not have the effect of preventing an allergic reaction, they only provide relief. Rice allergy can also have severe symptoms. Your allergist may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for you to use in these situations. Your allergist will give you the necessary information about how this syringe is used and in what situations it should be used.
