Itching is a common symptom of various allergies. You might experience itchy skin after coming into contact with or eating certain foods. Itching can occur on your outer skin, as well as internally, such as in the mouth and throat. In certain cases, such allergic reactions can be fatal, and you should seek immediate medical attention if you have a history of allergies.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a type of allergic reaction to certain foods and other allergens. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, anphylaxis can be severe and even lead to death if not treated quickly. Symptoms vary greatly, and not all are life-threatening; itchy skin, a hives breakout, redness and swelling are common reactions. Itching in the mouth and throat and swelling of the lips or tongue are considered more severe reactions. These symptoms can appear within minutes after you have been exposed to an allergen. Your body might seem to recover, only to have the symptoms return hours later. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these types of problems.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
Oral allergy syndrome, or OAS, can be triggered by certain raw fruits and vegetables. OAS particularly affects people with hay fever during spring and summer, when birch and ragweed pollen are prevalent. Mere contact between certain produce and your skin can cause itching. If you eat the produce, you might experience itching in your mouth and throat, along with itchy eyes, a runny nose and sneezing. Cooking or processing the fruits or vegetables you want to eat helps break down proteins that cause OAS, and makes exposure to such produce bearable and safe.
Exercise-Induced Food Allergies
Developing allergic reactions to certain foods while exercising is known as an exercise-induced food allergy. Simply eating a particular food might not cause any allergies, but exercising shortly after eating could spur symptoms similar to anaphylaxis and OAS. The rise in your core body temperature can spark itching, light-headedness and hives. The types of foods that cause exercise-induced allergies vary. For some sufferers, it is a combination of foods, while others are allergic to only one type of food. Shellfish, tomatoes, cheese and celery tend to be common causes for allergic reactions. You can avoid developing exercise-induced food allergies by not eating at least two hours before you exercise.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is a common condition that nearly everyone experiences at some point. In most cases, the condition is temporary and can be treated with simple over-the-counter products. Depending on the severity of your dry skin problem, you might experience itching, also known as pruritus. The itching can be intense and can lead to cracking and even deep fissures that bleed. According to MayoClinic.com, weather, hot baths and showers, harsh soaps, sun exposure and certain health conditions can all cause dry skin. Regularly moisturizing your skin and avoiding hot water contact helps resolve most dry skin problems. In more severe cases, your doctor might prescribe prescription creams along with mild astringents to help protect your skin from infections.
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