A person with allergic reactions may be seen with images of quite funny faces but honestly it can be one of the worst moments in life. An allergic reaction can be mild to severe. Some people with allergic reactions may just be presented with itchy skin and eyes but some people may even face life-threatening conditions such as breathing difficulty. One thing for sure, any allergic reactions should be a concern and finding a doctor would help to provide relief or possibly save a person’s life. In this article, we will be talking more on one of the common allergic reactions called angioedema and what food to avoid from triggering such horrendous medical conditions.

       Angioedema is defined as a condition where swelling happens underneath the skin known as the subcutaneous tissue and or submucosal tissue. Angioedema usually affects the lips and area around the eyes. However, angioedema may actually occur in any part of the body including the tongue, throat, intestine, the gut lining, limbs and even genitals.

       Although angioedema is often caused by an allergic reaction which triggers an inflammatory response in the body, this does not mean it is the only reason for a person to experience angioedema. Angioedema can be caused by some medicines even if a person is not allergic to the medicine such as certain types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or drugs used for high blood pressure. Some angioedema can be actually a hereditary disease through genetic passing and may even be for no identifiable causes.

            Angioedema as mentioned in the definition, causes swelling to various parts of the body. This medical condition may seem mild at a glance as the swelling happens either gradually over hours or almost immediately. Unfortunately, in severe cases it can cause breathing difficulty when it involves the throat or abdominal pain when it affects the gut. Less common symptoms include rash or hives, red eyes, diarrhoea and losing consciousness.

        Since angioedema can be a great misery to people that often experience it such as those with hereditary angioedema and allergic reaction, the best way to avoid such symptoms from occurring is to avoid eating food that could trigger it. Most of the angioedema cases can easily be triggered by histamine-rich foods or foods that easily release histamines. Hence, avoiding or limiting such food could help wonder. Below are examples of foods to be aware of:

• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Eggplant
• Smoked meat products such as salami and ham
• Shellfish
• Legumes such as beans, chickpeas, almonds and peanuts
• Citrus fruits such as lemon, oranges, lime, strawberry and kiwifruit
• Fermented foods including cheese and yoghurt
• Processed food high in additives, colouring, preservatives or flavouring
• Seasonings such as chilli powder, cinnamon and vinegar
• Canned food or pickles such as canned fish and sauerkrauts
• Cocoa-based products and chocolates
• Alcoholic beverages

        The list above may be so long for those looking for ways to help themselves from getting another episode of angioedema. Fret not, they can always have a delicious meal by incorporating food that is low in histamine such as fresh eat, fresh fish, other dairy products apart from cheese and yoghurt, most fresh vegetables and fruits, eggs, fruits juices without citrus fruits and most grains such as rice, bread or pasta.

       Furthermore, the long list of the food may seem a big nuisance for those looking for safe steps to avoid angioedema. Good news is they may try to slowly incorporate certain foods in their diet. Simple rules are, if the food eaten does not cause any more swelling episodes, the food can stay in the diet. It is best to consult a dietician or nutritionist to exactly understand what food to avoid and diet to follow.