Some individuals experience allergy symptoms such as a swollen mouth after eating a dish that contains arugula. Millions of individuals all over the world have food allergies and some are allergic to arugula. This is a green leafy vegetable that has a peppery or spicy flavor. Arugula is capable of triggering allergic reactions in some highly sensitive individuals which typically affect the tongue, lips and the throat.
What are the possible causes?
Food allergies occur once the immune system overly reactions to certain proteins. When an individual initially eats the vegetable, he/she will have no reaction. On the other hand, the body has already created immunoglobulin E antibodies which release chemicals such as histamine that attacks the offending substance. Take note that these chemicals are responsible for triggering the symptoms linked with allergies.
Symptoms after eating arugula
The symptoms of an allergic reaction to arugula manifest after consumption. The common symptoms include the following:
- Swollen mouth and tongue
- Irritation of the lips
- Swollen throat
- Facial swelling or angioedema
Individuals who have severe allergies to the vegetable must always bring an injectable epinephrine at all times to minimize the swelling in case of accidental ingestion of arugula.
The symptoms typically occur within a few minutes after ingestion of the allergen but may not manifest after several hours.
Possible complications
The complications of a reaction to arugula include a swollen throat that can disrupt with the flow of air to the lungs. Since the response to arugula mostly affects the area in and around the lips and mouth, you have to monitor for signs of difficulty breathing, rapid pulse and breathing as well as gasping for air.
In case the throat has swollen shut, death is imminent within a few minutes. Individuals who have severe allergies to the vegetable must always bring an injectable epinephrine at all times to minimize the swelling in case of accidental ingestion of arugula. It is important to note that anaphylaxis which causes circulatory collapse along with shock and drop in the blood pressure can occur in rare cases.
Preventive measures
One way to prevent a swollen mouth after eating arugula as well as other symptoms is complete avoidance. The reactions can become worse every time the individual is exposed to arugula or other substances.
Take note that a single episode of a minor reaction does not mean that he/she will have another mild attack in the future. If the individual has allergies, new foods should be approached carefully by the individual and eat only little at a time to check for any possible reactions.
Several restaurant salads serve a combination of greens but it is best to play safe even if they claim that it does not contain the vegetable. Among those who are highly allergic, minimal traces of arugula that clings to a knife or other utensils can trigger a reaction if used on other vegetables.