Foods that contain spices such as black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder or jalapenos can cause acid reflux and gastritis and can trigger food allergy symptoms in some people. Both food allergies and food intolerance can occur from eating foods that are too spicy.
Food Intolerance
Unlike food allergies, food intolerance does not involve an immune system reaction. Common causes of food intolerances are absence of an enzyme needed to digest food, irritable bowel syndrome, food poisoning, sensitivity to food additives, recurrent stress and celiac disease. Foods that often trigger intolerance are spicy foods, lactose and wheat.
Food Allergy
A food allergy occurs when the body mistakes substances within certain foods as harmful. When this occurs, a complete immune system reaction ensues. The body simultaneously releases antibodies and histamine, which causes symptoms such as swelling and hives, nausea and vomiting, stomach cramps, indigestion or diarrhea, facial swelling, swelling in the mouth, lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting. Hot spices, monosodium glutamate, fish, tomatoes, tree nuts and shellfish are all foods that can trigger food allergy reactions.
Considerations
Since symptoms of food, allergy and food intolerances are similar, see a physician if you develop any of the symptoms before treating it over the counter. Rashes, hives or itchy skin may be relieved by using skin creams or anti histamine creams.
Concerns
In some cases, food allergies can trigger a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis causes swelling in the throat, which makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, rapid pulse, dizziness or lightheadedness, lower blood pressure and pallor. If you develop any of these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately, because anaphylaxis left untreated may result in cardiac arrest.
