Mineral allergies involve an adverse physical reaction to various types of mineral medication. The details of these allergies vary with the type of mineral ingested or applied. Hypersensitivity to various minerals is unusual, but there is still a risk of severe symptoms and complications, some of them life-threatening. Some minerals cause allergies more commonly than others.
Magnesium Sulfate Allergy
Magnesium is a natural mineral that is essential for human nutrition. It is vital for the production of energy and enzymes in the body, and for the function of the muscular and nervous system. Magnesium is also used as a dietary supplement. By increasing the water content of stools, it makes them easier to pass. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to magnesium sulfate include difficulty breathing, difficulty in closing the throat, swelling in the lips, tongue or face, and hives. Patients are advised to get emergency medical help if any of these allergic reactions arise.
Iron Allergy
Iron is an essential mineral for the body. It is needed for the creation of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, and plays an important role in the transportation of oxygen through the bloodstream. Iron is normally absorbed through food in varying proportions, as needed by the body. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if hives, rashes, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, chest tightness, sharp stomach pain, vomiting, black stools, bloody stools or fever develop, as these are signs of an allergy to iron.
Sulfur Allergy
Sulfur allergy denotes adverse allergic drug reactions to a group of drugs called sulfonamides, which are drugs that contain sulfur. Sulfonamides were the very first type of antibiotics used to treat infections. However, because of their side effects, sulfonamides are used far less often now. Possible complications of sulfa allergy range from minor rashes and hives to toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal skin reaction. There is also a risk of hepatitis, liver injury and kidney failure. A triggered sulfa allergy can also worsen existing asthma and cause pneumonia-like reactions. Patients with HIV/AIDS may be more sensitive to sulfonamides or medications similar to sulfonamides.
