Allergic reactions to selenium are considered rare and need to be diagnosed by an allergist. Common side effects of taking the supplement may trigger symptoms that are similar to allergy symptoms. In order for you to receive a clinical diagnosis, an allergist will need to confirm that your body creates immunoglobulin E antibodies when selenium is introduced into your body. In rare cases, an allergic reaction to selenium may result in death.
What is Selenium?
Selenium is a mineral, sold as a dietary supplement that is used for medical purposes. Most people acquire this mineral through diet from eating liver, fish, chicken and crab. The supplement is commonly used to treat heart disease, stroke and may be used to prevent cancer of the stomach, lungs, skin and prostrate. The supplement is considered likely safe for most people, but needs to be used while under the direction of a medical professional. Tell your doctor if you have any known food allergies, animal allergies or allergies to preservatives.
Cause of Selenium Allergy
Although you may ingest selenium in your diet, taking it as a supplement may trigger an allergic reaction. Most dietary supplements are synthetic, not derived from natural sources and are taken in concentrated doses. If your immune system doesn't recognize the selenium supplement, it may mistake it for an intruding substance and attack it. The immune system creates immunoglobulin E antibodies that attempt to kill the substance. Antibodies help protect the body from infectious diseases and illness. IgE antibodies are specific to allergic reactions and cause a chemical chain reaction throughout the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may vary from person to person. Some individuals may develop minor symptoms, while others may develop severe symptoms. Common symptoms associated with supplements and medication allergies include sinus congestion, headaches, nasal drainage, shortness of breath, chest tightness, trouble breathing, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and skin rashes. Severe symptoms may include pale skin, a rapid heart rate, a drop in blood pressure, swelling in the throat, lips or face and the inability to breathe.
Testing and Treatment
Your doctor will prescribe allergy testing to identify whether or not your body creates IgE antibodies. A blood sample is sent to lab where selenium is introduced into your blood. If your blood creates IgE antibodies, you will be diagnosed with an allergy. If diagnosed with an allergy, you will need to stop taking selenium supplements and talk to your doctor about other supplement options.
Member Comments