You need to avoid foods that cause gas, bloating and skipped heartbeats because your symptoms are most likely the result of a severe allergic reaction. Food allergies commonly cause a medical condition called anaphylaxis. During anaphylaxis your entire body experiences an allergic reaction, affecting various systems in your body. Gas and bloating are signs of inflammation in your digestive system, while skipped heartbeats are a symptom of the cardiovascular system. Call your doctor immediately if you develop these symptoms.
Highly Allergic Foods
Some foods are more likely to trigger an allergic reaction. MayoClinic.com states that the most common food allergens include soy, wheat, eggs, milk, fish, nuts and peanuts. Tree nuts, fish and peanuts are more likely to cause anaphylaxis than other foods. In addition to these foods, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that chocolate, tomatoes, melons, pineapples and other tropical fruits can trigger an allergic reaction. The only way to prevent adverse reactions from these foods is avoidance.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a systematic allergic reaction that causes your body to experience a state of shock, according to MedlinePlus. While gas and bloating may occur from mild allergic reactions or food intolerances, skipped heartbeats is a sign of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis causes soft tissues throughout the body to swell and constrict. This will affect your digestive system, leading to gas, bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea and nausea. The effects on your cardiovascular system will cause a rapid heart rate, skipping of heartbeats, a faint pulse, lightheadedness and dizziness. Other signs of anaphylaxis may include hives, confusion, facial swelling, a drop in blood pressure and lip swelling.
Treatment
If you're experiencing anaphylactic shock symptoms, call 911. An injection of epinephrine is needed to restore your body to its normal functionality. Without receiving treatment you are at risk of losing consciousness, which could lead to death. Once diagnosed with a food allergy, you will need to eliminate and avoid consuming any food that contains that ingredient.
Food Journal
Keep a food journal to help your doctor identify which foods are triggering your extreme symptoms. Write down every food and beverage you consume and how it affects your body. Based on your documentation, your doctor will send you to an allergist to undergo testing to clinically diagnose your condition.
