Highly allergic foods are the most common foods that cause skin rashes. Skin rashes that develop as a result from an adverse reaction to various foods include eczema and hives. Both skin rashes are itchy and produce inflammation in the skin. If you experience unpleasant symptoms after eating certain foods, including skin rashes, make an appointment with an allergist or dermatologist to determine the cause. The best treatment for an allergic skin condition triggered by food is to identify and avoid those foods.
Shellfish
Shellfish are one of the most common food-related allergies that cause skin rashes. Shellfish are considered any seafood that lives in a shell, such as shrimp, lobster and crab. The skin rash is the result of a complicated chemical process that involves the immune system. The proteins found in shellfish can cause a person's immune system to overreact and defend itself. This defense system includes the creation of specific antibodies and histamine, which leads to inflammation and irritation in the skin. MayoClinic.com states that a shellfish allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that could lead to death.
Nuts and Peanuts
Nuts and peanuts can cause skin rashes to develop within minutes after eating them. Common skin reactions from nuts and peanuts are bumpy rashes, redness around the mouth and generally itchy skin. Other common food-allergy symptoms will accompany a nut and peanut allergy, such as gastrointestinal complications, respiratory reactions and cardiovascular issues. Gastrointestinal complications may include cramping, diarrhea, vomiting or nausea. Respiratory reactions can lead to asthma, a runny nose, sneezing, congestion, watery eyes and postnasal drip. Someone experiencing a nut allergy may also feel lightheaded or faint.
Dairy
The Food Allergy Initiative states that a milk allergy is considered the most common food-related allergy in young children. The consumption of dairy products by young children with eczema, increases their risk of triggering the skin rash condition. Milk contains various proteins that can cause an allergic reaction, such as whey and casein. Skin rashes from consuming dairy need to be prevented by avoiding all products containing dairy or diary by-products, such as whey protein powder. If dairy is consumed and a skin rash develops, use hydrocortisone creams and take an oral antihistamine.
Other Foods
Other allergic foods that can cause skin rashes include eggs, soy and wheat. These foods are considered common food allergens and can be diagnosed by undergoing allergy tests with an allergist.
