Diarrhea that develops after eating foods that contain seeds such as poppy, sesame or sunflower seeds is considered as a symptom that must be properly assessed by a doctor. The common cause of developing diarrhea after consuming foods that contain seeds is seed allergy. The usual seed that triggers an allergic response is sesame seed. If the individual develops other symptoms aside from diarrhea, a doctor must be consulted since there is a risk for developing a severe allergic reaction. Those who are prone to sever reactions usually bring along an EpiPen that must be given to counteract the symptoms.
What is seed allergy?
It is important to note that seed allergy occurs once the immune system wrongly identifies the proteins found in the seed as a threat to the body. Once the proteins are considered as a threat, the immune system will generate immunoglobulin E antibodies. These antibodies are only produced during an allergic reaction and attack the allergen. This results to swelling and inflammation in the soft tissues all over the body. The inflammation due to the production of several chemicals causes most of the symptoms of seed allergy. You can be prepared to handle an allergic reaction by enrolling in a course on first aid today.
Diarrhea
The exact cause of diarrhea from seed allergy is the inflammation in the small and large intestines. One of the most disturbing chemicals generated during a seed allergy is histamine. This chemical is naturally present in the body and helps prevent infection from developing. During an allergic reaction to certain seeds, the body produces large amounts of histamine which results to swelling. The histamine produced in the lining of the soft tissues of the small and large intestines leads to inflammation. In addition, it will also lead to stomach pain, gas, bloating, vomiting and nausea.
Other accompanying symptoms
If the individual develops diarrhea as a result of an allergic response, the individual will develop other symptoms aside from the digestive issues. Most of the food-related allergies typically affect the sinuses, lungs and the skin. The individual can develop nasal congestion, asthma, sinus pressure and pain as well as facial soreness.
Intolerance
When it comes to food intolerance, it can also cause diarrhea. Remember that intolerance is different from an allergy since it does not involve the immune system. In most cases of intolerance, the symptoms include abdominal pain, gas, bloating and diarrhea due to the inability to properly digest the proteins present in the seeds. If the digestive issues are accompanied by other symptoms, it indicates an allergic response.
If an individual develop diarrhea after eating foods that contain seeds frequently, it is best that he/she will consult a doctor for proper assessment and diagnosis. In doing so, the appropriate treatment can be started as soon as possible.