Psyllium fiber is commonly used as a dietary supplement to alleviate constipation and maintain regularity. Although the supplement is safe for most people, there is a risk of developing an allergic reaction. You shouldn't take psyllium fiber or any supplement without first talking with your physician. Skin rashes are one of the first symptoms that develop from an allergic reaction, and if this occurs it needs to be evaluated by a doctor. If you consistently develop a rash after taking psyllium fiber, you should stop taking the supplement until you can be seen by your healthcare provider.
Psyllium Fiber Allergy
A psyllium fiber allergy can cause rhino-conjunctivitis, skin rashes, gastrointestinal symptoms, asthma and anaphylaxis. Rhino-conjunctivitis is inflammation and irritation that occurs in the nasal passages and eyes after consuming psyllium fiber. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that causes your body to experience a state of shock. These symptoms are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to the proteins found in psyllium. If your immune system fails to identify a substance as safe, it will attack it with antibodies and histamine.
Rash Cause
Skin rashes commonly occur as one of the first signs of an allergic reaction because of increased levels of histamine in the skin. When the body releases immunoglobulin E antibodies, mast cells respond by creating histamine. Histamine helps protect the body from infection, but too much histamine causes inflammation and irritation in soft tissue. The presence of histamine in the top layer of skin can cause general inflammation and itching, or it can trigger hives and eczema. Rashes from a food allergy commonly begin on the face but can appear anywhere on the body.
Hives
Hives is one of the primary signs of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that could lead to death without medical intervention. Anaphylactic shock symptoms develop quickly, within seconds or minutes of ingesting the psyllium fiber. If you notice hives along with facial, tongue, mouth or lips swelling, an inability to breathe, dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, an increased heart rate and a metallic taste in your mouth, call 911 immediately. You will need an injection of epinephrine, a prescription medication that will alleviate your severe symptoms.
Treatment
For minor rashes, apply an over-the-counter steroid cream or lotion containing hydrocortisone. For severe allergic rashes, your doctor may prescribe a more powerful steroid cream, such as a corticosteroid. These medications applied topically can reduce the inflammation and itching associated with these skin rashes.
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