If you're allergic to soy, you will experience common soy allergy symptoms if you consume fermented soy products. Fermented soy products contain the same proteins as any other soy-based products and can result in a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylactic shock. Common fermented soy products include miso, soy sauce and tempeh. If you have not been diagnosed with a soy allergy and you develop symptoms after consuming fermented soy products, discontinue eating them and talk with your doctor.
Soy Allergy
A soy allergy occurs because of a malfunction of the immune system. When you eat fermented soy products, your immune system identifies the proteins as unsafe and begins to build a resistance to defend the body. The body generates certain antibodies, called immunoglobulin E, or IgE, to fight against the soy protein. IgE antibodies trigger cells to produce histamine, a common hormone found in the body that helps to ward off infection. When histamine is released in soft tissue, it causes inflammation, swelling and irritation, common soy allergy symptoms.
Effect
Most soy allergy symptoms develop within a few minutes after ingesting the soy-based product, but can take up to two hours to form, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Soy allergy symptoms include digestive difficulty, asthma, skin reactions and sinus complications. You may develop diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain shortly after eating fermented soy products. Asthma-like symptoms may include chest tightness, difficulty breathing, wheezing and coughing. Hives, eczema, skin inflammation and itchiness are also common symptoms of a soy allergy, according to MayoClinic.com. Sinus complications include congestion, a runny nose and post-nasal drip.
Treatment
The most effective treatment for a soy allergy is to avoid the consumption of all foods and beverages that contain soy, according to MayoClinic.com. Eliminate all fermented soy products and use alternatives. Some over-the-counter antihistamines may prevent and treat soy allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, skin irritation and watery eyes. Steroid-based creams can treat itchy and inflamed skin. Hydro-cortisone is available over-the-counter, or your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid applications.
Complications
In rare instances, you may experience a severe allergic reaction to fermented soy products. Anaphylaxis is an all-body allergic reaction that causes the body to experience a state of shock. Common symptoms include tingling or swelling in the face, lips or tongue, hives, shortness of breath, mental confusion and dizziness, according to MayoClnic.com. Anaphylactic shock requires emergency medical attention. Call 911 at the first signs of this condition.
