Symptoms of Corn Allergy

An allergy to corn is typically diagnosed in predisposed children and adults with existing allergies to other foods, such as wheat, soy, eggs, shellfish and peanuts. A corn allergy causes symptoms of digestive discomfort, migraines and topical skin irritation.

Time Frame

• Symptoms of a corn allergy may occur within five minutes after ingestion, causing inflammation and itching of the lips, mouth and throat that may appear as redness, bumps and hives and can progress to throat soreness and indigestion.

Symptoms

• Corn allergies mostly affect the digestive tract. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, cramping, diarrhea, stomachaches and fatigue. These effects may be accompanied by topical symptoms of hives, blisters and swelling.

Identification

• Food allergies to corn are identified through skin tests in which a small amount of corn allergen is placed on the skin, which is then pricked to cause an allergic response of inflammation or hives in sensitized people. Blood tests provide further information by evaluating Immunoglobin E (IgE) antibody responses to the corn allergen, with high levels of the antibody indicating a corn sensitivity.

Considerations

• Reading labels and increasing awareness of ingredients is important when suffering from a corn allergy. Corn and corn derivatives are found in an array of foods and additives, including baking powder, corn syrup, fructose, vanilla extract, pizza crust, sauces, and salad dressings. Corn can be an active ingredient in topical creams, medicines and adhesives.

Prevention

• Food allergies to corn are most effectively treated by avoiding corn consumption and eliminating products containing corn from the diet. Oral and topical antihistamines may reduce symptoms due to ingestion, inhalation or skin contact with a corn allergen, with EpiPen injections of adrenaline treating anaphylaxis (severe allergic) emergencies.