Sulfites are preservatives used to prevent discoloration in foods and drinks.They're commonly found in beer, wine, dried fruit, pickled foods and some medicines. The Food and Drug Administration estimates that roughly 1 percent of people develop a sensitivity to sulfites. This can happen at any age, and the reasons are not known. All food manufacturers are required to list sulfites on labels.
Causes And Symptoms
Most reactions occur after you inhale sulfur dioxide, generated by sulfites, while eating. According to a report in the 1988 "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology", the chance of a reaction depends on the level of sulfite, the type of food, and your sensitivity. It usually causes asthma symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. Some people can develop a skin rash, or urticaria, or experience diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. In rare cases, you might have a life-threatening asthmatic reaction, or anaphylaxis. If your throat swells, you have difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure or a weak, rapid pulse, seek immediate medical attention.
Tests and Diagnosis
If you suspect you have sulfite sensitivity, talk to your doctor and describe your symptoms. It's usually confirmed through a challenge procedure. You'll be given small, but gradually increasing, doses of sulfite at 20 or 30 minute intervals. An allergist will monitor you closely for signs of an asthmatic reaction. If this happens, your lung function will be measured, and you'll be given a bronchodilator to treat your symptoms. The process usually takes between two and two and a half hours.
Treatment and Prevention
Your doctor can prescribe an inhaled bronchodilator to treat your symptoms. Oral antihistamines can help relieve other symptoms, such as itching or hives. If you're at risk of anaphylaxis, you'll probably be prescribed an epinephrine injector, such as an EpiPen. Carry this with you at all times and inject it into your thigh at the first sign of a serious reaction. Make sure your family and friends know how to use it. After use, go directly to the emergency room.
Foods Containing Sulfites
The best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid all foods and drinks containing sulfites. The FDA has banned sulfites in fruit and vegetables that are eaten raw, but they may be used in canned foods, dried fruit, jams and juices. They are also used in soup mixes, potato chips, many condiments, fresh or frozen shrimp and pickled foods. They're often present in alcoholic drinks, especially beer and wine. Read labels carefully, and remember sulfites include sulfur dioxide, potassium bisulfite, potassium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite and sodium sulfite. Tell restaurant staff about your allergy and ask questions about ingredients and food preparation.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Sulfite Sensitivity
- Cleveland Clinic: Special Diets For Food Allergies
- "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology": Sensitivity to Sulfited Foods Among Sulfite-Sensitive Subjects With Asthma; S. L. Taylor, et al.; June 1988
- "Canadian Medical Association Journal": Adverse Reactions to Sulfites; William H. Yang, et al; November 1985
- MayoClinic.com: Food Allergy Treatments and Drugs; February 2011
