All allergy symptoms related to taking bilberry are caused by swelling. The most common places swelling will occur during an allergic reaction to bilberry are in the throat, skin, lungs and face. If you notice parts of your body start to swell, call your doctor immediately or visit an emergency room to ensure you're not having a severe allergic reaction. Before taking bilberry, you should talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using the supplement.
About Bilberry
Bilberries are related to blueberries. If you know you are allergic to blueberries, you should avoid using bilberry supplements. This berry has been used traditionally to treat inflammation in the throat and mouth, gout, skin problems, declining vision, kidney problems, the urinary tract and arthritis. The effectiveness of using bilberry for any medical condition has not been evaluated by the FDA. Bilberry should not be used if you have a blood clotting or bleeding disorder because bilberry may cause your blood to take longer to clot than normal.
Cause of Inflammation
Inflammation occurs in soft tissue whenever there is increased blood flow to the area of the body that's swelling. An allergic reaction to bilberry causes swelling in various parts of the body because of increased production of histamine, a hormone used by the body primarily to protect against infection. The immune system triggers a chain reaction in the body that results in mast cells producing histamine. Histamine is commonly created in the sinuses, the lungs, the skin and the digestive system. Inflammation in the body can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Severe Inflammation
According to Drugs.com, you should stop taking bilberry if you develop swelling in your throat, lips, tongue, face lungs and skin. Throat swelling can limit your ability to breathe, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, chest pain and tightness. If you feel a lump in your throat forming, call 911 for emergency assistance. You skin can break out in hives, which is also a sign of anaphylaxis.
Treatment
Treat minor swelling from an allergic reaction to bilberry by taking an oral antihistamine. Antihistamines are a medication that restricts your body from producing histamine, which in turn causes a reduction in swelling. Severe swelling associated with anaphylaxis will require an injection of epinephrine to reduce the swelling in the vital parts of your body. This medication is only obtained with a prescription or when administered by emergency personnel.
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