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Signs & Symptoms of Pepper Allergy

Pepper is a common flavoring ingredient found in many foods, and although it is meant to make food more spicy, it also can cause allergic reactions. An allergic reaction to pepper could be mild or severe, and ignoring it can lead to discomfort, hospitalization or even death. Being aware of the symptoms that can accompany a pepper allergy can help you diagnose this condition early.

  1. Itchiness

    • When a pepper allergy is taking effect, you might feel an itch in your tongue or in the back of your throat. This feeling could be mild, or it might feel like a strong burning sensation. If the itchiness crosses from irritation into pain, see a doctor immediately.

    Swelling

    • With a severe pepper allergy, swelling of the throat and tongue might develop. This is is the result of your body reacting badly to the allergens that exist in peppers. Even a small amount of swelling can disrupt breathing, and swelling that causes a shortness of breath should be treated as an medical emergency.

    Hives

    • Hives manifest as pale or reddish bumps on the skin or as long welts. They can show up on any part of the body, and they can be as small as a dime or as large as a dinner plate. Hives often are itchy or hot, but they usually will subside in a few hours to a day.

    Coughing

    • An allergy to peppers can cause irritation in the lungs and the nasal passages, and coughing is one way your body tries to rid itself of that irritation. Heavy or persistent coughing after exposure to pepper is one symptom that you might have a pepper allergy.

    Runny Nose

    • Because of irritation in the nasal passages, someone who suffers from a pepper allergy also might have a runny nose. A runny nose also could be accompanied by watering eyes.

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