An individual who is allergic to soy, he/she should find ways to avoid triggering a reaction from occurring. An effective way to avoid an allergic reaction is to carefully read the labels on certain food products. There are many products at the present that contain soy protein and flavoring additives. Always bear in mind that there are about several allergens present in the soy protein however it is still unknown how exactly the soy protein initiates an allergic reaction. At the present, soy allergy is becoming more common among adults and has been an issue of concern due to the risk for a severe reaction from occurring.
What are the common signs and symptoms?
Soy allergy usually starts within minutes or hours after ingesting soy. Most of these reactions can cause discomfort but not considered serious. The reactions tend to vary and can include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Hives
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties
- Tightness of the chest
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Fainting
- Itchiness
- Swelling
- Lethargy
Any reaction to soy and soy-products typically last as long as 48 hours. Since soybean is considered as a legume, an individual who is allergic to soy can also react to other legumes such as string beans, peanuts and garbanzo beans. With this in mind, it is best to avoid these legumes as well.
Serious signs and symptoms of soy allergy
During a systematic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, it can occur abruptly and affect different areas throughout the body. With this type of reaction, it can be potentially fatal even though it is rare. Emergency care must be provided right away. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include a drastic drop in the blood pressure, rapid pulse, swelling or lump in the throat that makes breathing difficult, drooling, metallic taste in the mouth, redness of the body, hoarseness, dizziness and even loss of consciousness.
If an allergic reaction to soy occurs, it is important to administer epinephrine right away either at the hospital or if the individual has an EpiPen on hand. An EpiPen is usually prescribed in order to counteract the symptoms of the reaction. An epinephrine shot is given on the thigh to ease the symptoms until medical care can be provided.
Allergic reactions to soy among infants
Most of the systemic allergic reactions among children are caused by food such as eggs, milk, peanuts, soy and wheat. The initial sign of a soy allergy in children typically starts once there is a transition from a milk-based formula to a soy-based formula. Always bear in mind that these allergic reactions usually include delayed growth, presence of blood in the stool and colic. Determining soy allergy among infants and young children becomes complicated since the signs of an allergic reaction to soy and milk are similar and can also resemble other health issues.