People who never had a problem eating potatoes before may have trouble recognizing potato allergies. As the immune system changes over time, adults can become sensitized to different foods and develop allergies. The chances increase if they already have one or more allergies of any kind. The likelihood of getting potato allergies rises if individuals experience allergic reactions to latex or birch pollen, the allergenic proteins of which share similar structures. Potato allergy symptoms may be limited to oral discomfort, involve the digestive system or include serious heart and breathing trouble.
Itchy Mouth
Allergic reactions to potatoes or other foods prompt the body's mast cells to release histamines. Sensations of itching or tingling in the mouth mark the first of histamine-induced food allergy symptoms, reports the Mayo Clinic. Very soon after eating potatoes, itching may affect the lips, tongue, throat and lining of the mouth.
Swollen Skin
Histamine produces inflammation in the oral area that spreads to the skin as the bloodstream carries potato allergens through the body, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) states. Swelling of the mouth may progress to the face and eyelids or form a raised rash elsewhere on the skin. Inflammation causes skin redness, puffiness, itchiness and pain in patches. These allergy symptoms mimic the contact dermatitis condition of hives, and some patients may fail to associate them with potato allergies.
Headaches
Allergy patients with histories of migraines may suffer headache pain triggered by allergic reactions to potatoes. The Mayo Clinic notes that histamines are believed to influence the onset of migraines, which may outlast topical or abdominal allergy symptoms after eating potatoes.
Dizziness
The most severe consequence of some allergic reactions comes from a sudden loss of blood pressure. In these rare instances, patients may become flushed and feel a rapid pulse, the AAFA reports. Breathing problems may arise as inflammation obstructs the airways, causing symptoms of throat tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath and dizziness. This emergency condition, termed anaphylaxis, can quickly escalate to fainting, respiratory arrest and cardiac failure, or death. Patients who have trouble breathing should call 911 immediately.
Stomach Pain
The abdominal symptoms of potato allergies commonly appear later, as the allergenic food undergoes digestion. Nausea may occur up to an hour or more after eating potatoes, or vomiting may suddenly occur. The Mayo Clinic notes that stomach pain and cramping typically follow the digestive time frame. Patients may also experience diarrhea, but digestive problems will fade as the allergens pass out of the body.
