Soy allergies and soy intolerance are two different conditions with similar gastrointestinal symptoms. If you experience adverse reactions after eating soy products, talk with your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat based solely on symptoms. Most soy allergies develop in babies and subside by the age of three years, while soy intolerance is a life-long condition. A soy allergy could lead to a severe allergic reaction, resulting in death, while a soy intolerance poses no health threat if managed.
Soy Allergy
A soy allergy is a malfunction of the immune system. During an allergic reaction to soy, the immune system mistakes the proteins from soy as dangerous substances and produces antibodies to defend the body. The immune system creates antibodies to fight off viruses, bacteria and infections. The increased levels of antibodies in the blood trigger mast cells to produce histamine. This chemical reaction in the body leads to common soy allergy symptoms.
Soy Intolerance
Soy intolerance is a malfunction of the digestive system. The American College of Gastroenterology states that a soy intolerance occurs when the body fails to create sufficient enzymes to break down the soy proteins. Because soy proteins are unable to be properly digested, the small intestines attempt to rid the body of the proteins, resulting in array of digestive complications.
Common Symptoms
Soy allergy symptoms and soy intolerance symptoms are similar only with respect to the digestive system. Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, stomach cramping and gas, according to the Cleveland Clinic and the American College of Gastroenterology. Digestive symptoms will develop within minutes and up to one hour after ingesting soy products in both conditions.
Unique Symptoms
A soy allergy will cause other symptoms aside from digestive complications. Other symptoms from a soy allergy include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, chest pain, sneezing, nasal congestion, eye irritation, hives, eczema, skin itchiness and tingling in the lips, mouth or tongue, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatment
In both conditions, you need a proper diagnosis by a medical doctor in order to get the appropriate treatment. Avoidance of soy products is the most effective way to prevent adverse reactions. Mild soy allergy symptoms can be treated with an antihistamine and hydrocortisone cream. Certain medications may be prescribed if you are diagnosed with a soy intolerance. If eating soy causes a severe allergic reaction, you may need to be treated with an epinephrine injection.
