Tomatoes may not be the first food that comes to mind when you think of allergic reactions, but tomatoes are a common food allergen. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that tomatoes commonly trigger an allergic reaction in people that may lead to an allergic rash. Most food allergies occur in young children under 5 years of age but may develop in adulthood. If you notice a rash from eating tomatoes, talk with your doctor about undergoing allergy tests to receive a clinical diagnosis.
Tomato Allergy
A tomato allergy occurs when your immune system accidentally mistakes the proteins in the tomato as a threat to your body. Your immune system helps protect the body from infectious organisms that could harm the body. During a tomato allergy, your immune system attacks the tomato proteins, even though the proteins are safe for human consumption. The immune system releases immunoglobulin E antibodies, disease-fighting agents, which trigger white blood cells to create histamine, according to MayoClinic.com.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of a tomato allergy can vary in severity, depending on the person. Most allergy symptoms are the result of increased histamine levels in soft tissues. The presence of histamine causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow, resulting in inflammation. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, cramping, stomach pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, swelling, an increased heart rate and skin rashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Severe allergy symptoms may lead to life-threatening symptoms, such as shock, the inability to breathe and fainting.
Allergic Rashes
Allergic rashes are a common symptom of food allergies, but tomatoes may also cause allergic contact dermatitis. This allergic skin condition causes inflammation and itchiness of the skin when you skin comes in direct contact with tomatoes. This condition is commonly treated with washing the affected area and applying hydrocortisone. Hives, another allergic rash, may be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Hives are extremely itchy and form in various sizes and shapes as welts. The welts have defined borders and are flat on top.
Treatment
No cure exists for a tomato allergy, aside from avoiding tomatoes. Minor allergic reactions to tomatoes may be treated with an oral antihistamine and decongestant. More severe allergic reactions may require emergency medical attention, such as an injection of epinephrine. Talk with your doctor before taking any medication.
