Why Brinjal Causes Allergy?
April 2, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Eggplant, also known as brinjal or aubergine, is a member of the nightshade family of plants, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and bell peppers. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to eggplant due to certain proteins found in the plant.
Allergies to eggplant are relatively rare compared to other food allergies, but they can still occur. The exact proteins responsible for eggplant allergies have not been fully identified, but it’s believed that they may be similar to proteins found in other nightshade plants, such as tomatoes and potatoes.
Symptoms of eggplant allergy can vary from mild to severe and may include:
- Skin reactions: Itching, redness, hives, or swelling of the skin (urticaria) may occur after consuming or touching eggplant.
- Oral allergy syndrome: Some individuals with eggplant allergy may experience symptoms such as itching or tingling in the mouth or throat shortly after eating raw eggplant. This is known as oral allergy syndrome and is often associated with pollen allergies.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea may occur in individuals with eggplant allergy.
- Respiratory symptoms: In some cases, eggplant allergy may lead to respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, or asthma exacerbation.
It’s essential for individuals who suspect they have an eggplant allergy to avoid consuming eggplant and products containing eggplant. Allergic reactions can vary in severity, and severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
If you suspect you have an eggplant allergy, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management. Allergy testing may be recommended to confirm the allergy and identify other potential food allergies or cross-reactivities. Management of eggplant allergy typically involves strict avoidance of eggplant and carrying an epinephrine auto-injector in case of severe allergic reactions.