An allergy to black-eyed peas might be one you've never considered, but it is more likely if you are allergic to other foods in the legume family. Peanuts and soybeans are the two most common legumes that cause an allergic reaction, but if you are allergic to either, you might be at an increased risk of a black-eyed pea allergy. If you develop symptoms of a food allergy after eating black-eyed peas, seek medical attention immediately to determine the severity of your allergy.
Black-Eyed Pea Allergy
A black-eyed pea allergy is the result of an abnormal response to the proteins found in them. After you eat black-eyed peas, your body produces antibodies, called immunoglobulin E, to neutralize the allergen. Your body also releases histamines, which help to prevent infection, but are also what cause your symptoms. Your body will also release chemicals with the histamines that also play a role in the development of allergy symptoms.
Allergic Reaction
Symptoms of a black-eyed pea allergy can vary from mild to severe. Symptoms typically appear within two hours after eating black-eyes peas. The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, voice changes and wheezing. You might also develop itchy skin, tingling in your mouth, swelling of your lips and face, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. In severe cases, anaphylaxis might occur. This is a severe allergic reaction and can be life-threatening. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include airway constriction, swollen throat, difficulty breathing, drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, dizziness or loss of consciousness. Seek medical attention immediately if you develop any of these symptoms.
Legume Allergy Connection
Because black-eyed peas are members of the legume family, you might be more likely to have an allergic reaction if you are allergic to other legumes, such as peanuts. The proteins in black-eyed peas are similar to the proteins in peanuts, which might increase your chances of an allergic reaction. Bruce S. Dobozin, author of "Allergies: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment and Daily Management," recommends speaking with your allergist if you are allergic to peanuts to ensure that black-eyed peas are safe for you.
Treatment
The only way to prevent an allergic reaction to black-eyed peas is to avoid eating them, or foods that contain them. MayoClinic.com notes that even if you are diligent about keeping foods that cause allergies out of your diet, you might still come into contact with them. For a mild case, over-the-counter or prescription histamines might help reduce symptoms. If you have a more severe reaction, an injection of epinephrine might reduce your symptoms, but you will need to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Ask your doctor about an injectable epinephrine pen to keep with you at all times if you have had a severe allergic reaction.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Food Allergy
- MayoClinic.com: Food Allergy
- Allergies: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment and Daily Management; Bruce S. Dobozin
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