Itchy hands can occur because of dry skin, which some women suffer from during pregnancy; however, itchy skin in conjunction with taking prenatal vitamins can occur from food allergies or sensitivity to ingredients in the prenatal vitamin. The histamine response that occurs as part of a food allergy can cause itchy hands as well as itchy skin on other parts of the body.
Prenatal Vitamins
A prenatal vitamin is a special multivitamin used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Prenatal multivitamins contain a mixture of fat- and water-soluble vitamins along with essential minerals needed for the mother and baby's health. Prenatal vitamins also contain additional ingredients used to help the body absorb the medication. Prenatal vitamins also might contain artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. These ingredients can cause reactions in people with food allergies or sensitivities. If you have food allergies, intolerance or sensitivities, read the label before using any multivitamin or prenatal vitamin product.
Food Allergies
People with food allergies might develop symptoms such as hives, rash, itchy skin, swelling in the mouth or throat, diarrhea or indigestion, after consuming products that contain wheat, nuts, fish, shellfish or tree nuts. Unlike food intolerance, food allergies occur soon after ingesting even small amounts of these sources. Itchy skin and rash as well as digestive upsets are caused by the body releasing a mixture of histamine to defend against the allergen.
Anaphylaxis
Normal prenatal vitamin side effects are upset stomach, headache and unusual taste in the mouth, according to Drugs.com. In addition to developing food allergy symptoms such as rash or light-headedness, some people can develop a serious reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis are difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, swelling in the throat, difficulty swallowing and blue coloring of the skin and nails. If you develop any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Considerations
Itchy skin is not a normal side effect of taken prenatal multivitamins, but the Baby Center website states that many pregnant women might find that the palms of their hands and soles of their feet become red and itchy, which is a common symptom caused by an increase in the hormone estrogen.
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