Allergy alarm
Question
I was peeling some potatoes the other day when one of my hands came out in a couple of raised white lumps. They weren't itchy, but they had a rash around them. Could this be an allergy? Do I need to mention this to a doctor in case the reaction gets worse? I've been avoiding any potato products since, but is this necessary?
Answer
Only about 1% of the population have true food allergies. However food intolerance is fairly common. It is important to explain the difference.
True food allergies usually cause an immediate reaction and the symptoms can be very severe, including mouth or body swelling, a rash and even collapse. However, this will only be the case if the allergy is severe. A less severe reaction may manifest itself in the skin in the form of a rash or hives. A doctor or specialist can perform an allergy test using a skin prick test or RAST testing.
Food intolerance is experienced by about 20 % of the population and is often less severe in its symptoms, for example: vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. These symptoms are usually slower in onset.
Unfortunately there is no reliable blood or skin test that will be able to diagnose food intolerance so it is usually a case of elimination and reintroduction of foods. This is usually under the supervision of a doctor or dietician.
We cannot say if you are allergic to potatoes so it would be a good idea to talk about the problem with your local doctor (GP). Allergies are only dangerous if a severe anaphylactic reaction occurs blocking the airway. But a doctor will be able to investigate the symptoms you've experienced.
For further information about allergy testing including advice on where you can be tested in your local area, you can contact Allergy UK on 01322 619864.
Updated: 03/06/2011
Question answered by bss
