Proteins are long strands of amino acids linked together that make up the principle ingredient in all living cells and give each cell a different function in the body. Your body reacts to these molecules in allergic responses. Allergic responses to protein molecules can range from a mild watery nose to a severe and life-threatening anaphylactic reaction.
Allergic Rhinitis
This medical term describes the excess watery substance that builds up in the nasal cavity and eyes when you suffer from an allergic response. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, allergic rhinitis is triggered when a protein allergen is breathed in through the nose and sets off a histamine response. The amount of protein allergen in the air will play a part in how much of a response you will experience. The histamine in allergic rhinitis will cause a stuffy nose, sore throat from postnasal drip, coughing, and runny nose, tearing eyes and sneezing. These signs result because of the watery substance produced by the body as a symptom of a protein allergy.
Hives
Skin hives present another response to the exposure of histamine in the body. Histamine is the chemical released by the cells in response to a protein allergen reaction. According to MassGeneral Hospital for Children, this response becomes more common when proteins have become ingested, such as a food or antibiotic. Hives will also occur from allergic responses to the proteins in specific bacteria or viruses, such as hepatitis B, mononucleosis or intestinal worms or from hormonal response to pregnancy or pre-menstrual flare-ups.
Allergic Asthma
Allergic asthma is an extrinsic or external response to a protein allergen. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, this form of asthma is partially reversible with medication and remains the most common form of asthmatic response. This type of asthma triggers from protein molecules such as pet dander, mold, dust mites and pollen. You will have common symptoms of asthma such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and rapid breathing.
Gastrointestinal
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, gastrointestinal symptoms can include cramping, nausea and vomiting. You will notice these symptoms within hours of eating the offending protein or even after 24 hours. You can try an elimination diet to determine the cause of the symptoms and then reintroduce the foods to your diet after several months.
Anaphylaxis
An anaphylactic response to a protein molecule is the most feared of the allergic symptoms. According to Mayo Clinic, anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with epinephrine. Signs of anaphylaxis include swollen throat or a lump that makes it difficult to breathe, stomach pain and cramping, fast heart rate, dizziness or loss of consciousness and shock.
