An unexplained rash, hives or upset stomach may point to an undiagnosed allergy. Preservatives in foods and other consumer products are a common cause of allergic reactions. In most cases, the symptoms are minor, but some very allergic individuals can suffer extreme reactions. Living with a preservative allergy means carefully reading labels and avoiding those specific chemicals.
Allergies Explained
Allergies result from a malfunction in the body's immune system. Normally, the immune system identifies and attacks disease-causing bacteria and viruses. With allergies, the immune response targets harmless substances like pet dander, pollen or certain chemicals. These substances are called allergens. An allergic response may be minor and treatable with home care, or severe and require immediate medical attention. Doctors think that both genetics and a person's environment factor in to the development of allergies.
Preservative Allergies
Manufacturers often lace perishable goods with preservative chemicals like sodium benzoate. Many food allergies result from a reaction to these chemicals. Hives, eczema, nausea and vomiting, and a metallic taste are typical symptoms of a food allergy.
Cosmetic products also contain preservatives to extend their shelf lives. Allergic individuals show symptoms from skin contact, such as a rash or swelling. A Denmark study published in February 2010 in the journal "Contact Dermatitis" presents evidence that preservative allergies have increased over the years as companies have introduced new chemicals into their products.
Diagnosing Allergies
If you suspect that you have an allergy to a preservative or other chemical, allergy testing may confirm that suspicion. Doctors who diagnose and treat allergies are called allergists. An allergist may perform one of several tests to determine your unique allergic conditions. The most common form of allergy testing is skin testing, in which a small quantity of an allergen is poked into the skin. Swelling or irritation at the site indicates an allergy. In the event that a skin test poses a safety risk, blood testing also produces reliable results, though not as quickly.
Preventing and Treating Allergies
The most reliable form of allergy prevention is to avoid the offending substance altogether. In some cases, this avoidance is impractical. Over-the-counter medications are effective against minor allergy symptoms. Severe symptoms may require immunotherapy, a series of injections designed to modulate the immune system. Your allergist can select the best course of action for managing the symptoms of your allergies. In the case of a life-threatening allergy, carry an epinephrine shot with you at all times.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Allergies; January 2011
- United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Medical Surveillance - Formaldehyde
- American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology: Allergy Testing: Tips to Remember
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Food Allergy; March 2010
- "Contact Dermatitis"; Temporal Trends of Preservative Allergy in Denmark (1985-2008); J.P. Thyssen, et al.; February 2010
