Digestive enzyme supplements are commonly used for people with certain food intolerances. During digestion, the body creates various enzymes that help break down the foods in the body. If you're lacking a specific enzyme, your doctor may prescribe a supplement to take whenever you eat the food to which you have an intolerance. Although unlikely, you can form an allergic reaction while taking digestive enzyme supplements, according to the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center.
Allergic Reactions
An allergic reaction occurs when your body overreacts to a certain substance. For example, if your body mistakes the digestive enzyme supplement as an invading substance, the immune system will begin to respond to the supplement as if it were a harmful substance and attack it, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The immune system produces IgE antibodies that trigger the creation of histamine in mast cells throughout the body. Higher levels of histamine cause irritation and inflammation in the body that lead to common allergy symptoms.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to digestive enzymes include gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes and asthma. Gastrointestinal symptoms include gas, diarrhea, bloating, stomach cramping and vomiting. Skin rashes related to an allergic reaction are hives, general inflammation and itching and eczema. Most skin rashes appear within the first hour after taking the digestive enzyme supplement. Wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath and chest pain are common asthma symptoms, according to MedlinePlus.
Diagnosis
An allergist is the most qualified medical professional to diagnose an allergic reaction. An allergist will go over your family history and perform allergy tests to determine if you have an allergy to the supplement. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that your allergist may perform a skin and blood test to determine if your body experiences an allergic reaction while taking the supplement.
Consideration
Not all side effects while taking a digestive enzyme are related to an allergic reaction. Other common side effects may include severe abdominal discomfort, joint pain and frequent urination, according to the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center. Talk to your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions while taking a digestive enzyme supplement.
Severe Reaction
As with any medication or supplement, you are at risk for experiencing a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction to digestive enzyme supplements will cause symptoms, such as swelling in the face, throat or tongue, rashes, trouble breathing and severe dizziness, according to the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center. If you experience these symptoms, call your doctor or 911 right away.
