The most common cause of joint pain is arthritis, a condition where your immune system causes excessive inflammation in your joints, leading to pain and tenderness. According to a BBC News report, studies conducted in Great Britain have linked eating red meat to an increased risk of arthritis. Eating red meat with a meat allergy will also cause increased joint pain because of the reaction of your immune system. If you develop joint pain from eating red meat, stop consuming the meat until you can be seen by your doctor for a clinical diagnosis.
British Study
The study of 25,000 people, published by the University of Manchester, performed in Great Britain demonstrated that people who ate meat on a daily basis had a double risk of developing arthritis, according to BBC News. The study showed that eating red meat on a daily basis can increase an immune system response that can lead to stiffening and pain in your joints. Eating red meat in moderation may help lower the risk of developing arthritis. If you have arthritis, substitute red meat with other meats, such as chicken, turkey and pork.
Meat Allergy
Although uncommon, you may have an allergy to red meat. According to a news story posted on ABCNews.com, certain carbohydrates found in meat may trigger an exaggerated immune system reaction. If you're allergic to certain meats, your immune system will react to the carbohydrates in the meat as if they are a dangerous substance. This mistake causes the body to unleash a chemical attack against the carbohydrates. Immunoglobulin E antibodies are disease-fighting agents that fight against the allergen, causing mast cells to produce histamine, a chemical that can trigger inflammation and swelling in soft tissue, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Allergy Link
The Center for Food Allergies states that any food allergy can trigger arthritis symptoms. During a food allergy, histamine that is produced in the soft tissue in between your joints can swell, leading to excessive pressure, pain and inability to move your joints as normal. The only effective treatment for joint pain resulting from a meat allergy is to avoid eating meat that triggers your symptoms.
Treatment
If you accidentally eat red meat that causes joint pain, talk with your doctor about treatment options. Over-the-counter treatments include pain relievers and antihistamines. Pain relievers help reduce the pain and inflammation and antihistamines restrict the body from producing histamine.
