When it comes to green tea allergy, it is considered uncommon but capable of triggering an allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Once an individual experiences any unwanted side effects after drinking products that contain green tea, he/she must discontinue use and schedule an appointment with a doctor.
The usual symptoms of green tea allergy are strikingly similar to food allergies. A reaction occurs due to the overreaction of the immune system to the green tea. The body understandably mistakes the compounds as a threat to the body and fights them off by generating IgE antibodies and histamine.
Skin reactions
An individual who is allergic to green tea is usually affected by a tingling sensation or rashes on the skin. The usual skin rashes linked with green tea allergy include eczema and hives.
Hives are described as skin welts that are very itchy, elevated and red in color. They can manifest in just minutes, disappear and then reappear for no apparent reason. As for eczema, it is a skin condition in which is the skin is hypersensitive. There is also a tingling sensation in the lips, face, throat, lips or tongue.
Respiratory symptoms
The usual symptoms of any form of food allergy involve the respiratory system. It is important to note that the sinuses are normally affected due to the inflammation instigated by the presence of histamine. Once the sinus cavity inflames, it ensnares the mucus, resulting to heightened pressure all over the head which leads to sneezing, postnasal drip, congestion as well as facial sensitivity and sinus headaches.
In most cases, asthma-like symptoms can also occur. Additionally, symptoms linked with a food allergy include difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing.
Digestive issues
The digestive symptoms usually manifest within a few minutes or an hour after the consumption of products that contain green tea if the individual is allergic. The usual symptoms include bloating, vomiting, gas, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The digestive symptoms can be mistaken for intolerance. The difference with intolerance is that the immune system is not involved. This is why it is best to consult a doctor for proper assessment and diagnosis.
Severe reactions
Even though uncommon, the consumption of products containing green tea can lead to a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. This reaction occurs once the individual experiences a systemic reaction. Large amounts of histamine are generated all over the body which causes the body to go into the state of shock. Hives will break out while the throat swells along with a drop in the blood pressure, dizziness, abdominal pain and anxiety. Anaphylaxis is considered life-threatening and requires immediate medical care. By enrolling in a class on first aid, you will be prepared to handle an allergic reaction once it occurs.