It can be hard to find a salad that does not contain a variety of lettuce. Iceberg, romaine, butter and arugula are all common types of lettuce. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the list of most common allergenic foods does not include lettuce. But there are people who are indeed allergic to lettuce. It is important to distinguish this from a simple food intolerance, which does not come with the complications of a true allergy.
Allergy
An allergic reaction to lettuce induces an immune reaction with production of immunoglobulin E, or IgE. Allergic manifestations on the skin include hives, rash or severe itching. Respiratory problems, such as difficulty in breathing or wheezing, can occur. Digestive symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, flatulence or diarrhea, are possible. Swelling of the lips, face and tongue also is seen with an allergic response. In serious cases, severe breathing difficulty, very low blood pressure and loss of consciousness might be seen.
Intolerance
Food intolerance is not a true immune reaction. It can be due to several causes including sensitivity to any additive in the product or inability to digest the food completely due to a lack of enzymes. Intolerance is gradual in onset and does not usually cause a life-threatening problem. It usually is restricted to mild to moderate digestive symptoms.
You may be able to eat small amount of lettuce without any problems if you only have an intolerance. If you are unsure if it is an allergy or intolerance, speak with your doctor.
Complications
Allergic reactions can progress quickly. In case of severe allergy symptoms, seek emergency medical care. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction with severe symptoms of the respiratory, skin and digestive systems. In addition, blood pressure gets to a dangerously low level, sometimes resulting in loss of consciousness. This has to be treated immediately. Call 911 and get medical treatment as soon as possible.
Treatment and Prevention
If you have a known allergy to lettuce, avoiding it altogether is the safest option. Even small amounts of the food can cause a severe response if you are truly allergic to it. It is wise to exercise extreme caution and choose your foods carefully. Substitute lettuce with any other green leafy vegetable that you find appealing.
If you end up having an allergic reaction, taking a fast-acting antihistamine is beneficial while you wait to get medical attention. If you have had severe allergic reactions to lettuce earlier, your doctor most likely has given you epinephrine to administer to yourself to prevent a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction.
Over-the-counter oral allergy medications are effective for mild cases. Mild rashes or skin irritation will clear up quickly with over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointments or creams.
Seek the advice of your doctor about prevention and treatment.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Food Allergy: Definition; Mayo Clinic Staff; May 11, 2011
- MedlinePlus; Food Allergy; June 29, 2010
- Cleveland Clinic; Special Diets ... Allergies; April 30, 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Anaphylaxis: First Aid; Mayo Clinic Staff; January 5, 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Food Allergy .... Difference?; James T C Li, M.D., Ph.D.; June 3, 2011
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