Soy Allergy
Many people have turned into soybeans and soy products because of the protein and other nutrients they offer. However, there is also the risk of soy allergy particularly for people who have it since they were young.
Soy allergy can be fatal to youngsters due to the many symptoms it carries. But some children can outgrow this condition by the age of 3-5. In rare cases, adults can also be inflicted especially if they belong to atopic families.
Symptoms
- acne-like rashes
- eczema
- nasal congestion
- asthma
- canker sores
- fever blisters
- swelling
- low blood pressure
- breathing problems
- itching
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- anaphylaxis [severe case]
Treatment
Skin test is usually required for every type of allergy. This is to isolate the real cause of the allergy attack. In the case of soy allergy, an allergologist may use skin prick or blood test to determine the cause of the allergy attack.
Treating soy allergy will depend on the severity of the attack and the symptoms it carries. Severe soy allergy may require emergency hospitalization especially when it consists of respiratory clogging and breathing problems. For milder attacks, there are doctor-prescribed medicines that can be taken orally or can be used as topical creams over skin rashes and sores.
Maintenance medication may also be required to reduce attacks and to prolong its benefits to the individual.
Prevention
There is only one sure way to prevent soy allergy and that is to avoid eating soybeans and foods that contain soy. Make sure you check the labels of the food items that you buy from the grocery.
When eating out, it is also essential to check the menu before ordering. It may be difficult to sift out the wrong foods especially when you are unsure of what to order in restaurants, so it is also advisable to prepare your own meals to make sure.
Some soy allergy patients opt to carry with them first aid allergy shots just to make sure they get proper medication in case of emergencies.
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