Histamine Intolerance = Headaches, diarrhoea, rashes and a sudden drop in blood pressure?

·         Increasing proportion of European population being identified as Histamine Intolerant

·         Intolerance sufferers - dire lack of diagnosis and information in the UK

·         A bad reaction to a little red wine can indicate HIT

·         HIT symptoms mimic allergy symptoms

·         Headaches, diarrhoea, rashes and a sudden drop in blood pressure are common symptoms

·         Stress, high histamine-level foods and alcohol trigger symptoms

This may indicate a condition called histamine intolerance (HIT), recognised as a growing problem on mainland Europe, but barely known, under-diagnosed and under-publicised in the UK, with sufferers sometimes being given the very treatment that makes it worse.

Its effects are very uncomfortable and can show up as symptoms that look intriguingly like an allergy. Why? The answer is simple. The common culprit is histamine. But the difference between allergy and HIT is significant. In allergies the immune system is involved; HIT is the lack of an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO). Headaches, diarrhoea, rashes and a sudden drop in blood pressure are common symptoms.

HIT is complex but is mainly caused by problems digesting histamine-rich foods. In other words, if our DAO enzyme doesn`t do its job properly then histamine levels skyrocket and make us feel very ill. Some sufferers may have had this for a long time and those with predominant symptoms of diarrhoea are likely to have been misdiagnosed with IBS.

Problem foods include matured cheeses, cured meats, processed/tinned foods, any fermented foods, tomatoes, spinach, aubergines, chocolate, nuts, citrus fruits, wheat germ, some spices and alcohol, especially red wine and microbe-contaminated foods like tuna, mackerel and sausage.

 Most people can enjoy histamine-rich foods and wine in reasonable quantities and feel perfectly fine the next day, however, some may feel extremely unwell Stress or emotional upset is also known to be a trigger of symptoms. So relax, enjoy, drink moderately and eat fresh foods. The majority of HIT sufferers, research shows, are women in their 40s.

Those who believe they may have a degree of histamine intolerance should consult with their GP. 

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ALLERGY expert Marlene Hochstrasser is backing a national campaign to highlight food allergy and intolerance.

Registered nurse and qualified allergy practitioner Marlene, who is director of the Devon Allergy Clinic, believes there are huge public misconceptions and misinformation about food.

And she is supporting Allergy UK’s national Food Allergy and Intolerance Week which takes place from Monday January 24.

As many people are embarking on a New Year health kick, diet and losing weight is often a top priority to get rid of those troublesome extra pounds.

But while exercise and diet may do the trick, there could be underlying problems thwarting your attempts to shed the weight.

Torquay-based Marlene  says food intolerances and yeast imbalances could account for weight gain, bloating, tiredness, aching joints and fatigue. So it may not just be the amount of food you are eating which is causing the weight gain but your body’s intolerance to particular foods.

She said: “Often people try to self-diagnose but this can be deceptive. For example, you may cut out bread which can cause bloating and other symptoms. But while you could feel an improvement in your health by removing bread from your diet, it could be just one of the ingredients which is causing the problem.

“If you have an intolerance to yeast, rather than wheat for example, if you then carry on eating other foods containing yeast, the problem remains.

“We need to improve education about food intolerances as a whole. It is most important to ensure you eat a balanced diet and if you are cutting out one or more food groups completely and not replacing it with other foods you can tolerate, you can become seriously nutritionally compromised.

“By being specific about the particular foods you may have hypersensitivity to, you can continue to eat a healthy and balanced diet. So if you do have an intolerance to wheat, make sure you replace it with another cereal food such as oats or rye.”

Yeast overgrowth is another common cause of weight gain. Symptoms include cravings for foods including sugar, wine, bread and cheese, migraines, tiredness and bloating.

While we all have the yeast candida in our gut, this is usually controlled by other bacteria. However, illness, overuse of antibiotics, steroids and stress can lead to candida levels becoming out of control, making losing weight more difficult.

Patient Barbara Johnson, from Newton Abbot, 58, saw Marlene after being diagnosed with a thyroid condition. Her symptoms had included chronic fatigue.

While medication controlled the symptoms and improved her condition for a while, Barbara’s debilitating aches and pains eventually reappeared.

After reading about Marlene on her website www.thedevonallergyclinic.co.uk, Barbara decided to try an allergy test. The results were that Barbara was suffering from candida which was causing most of her symptoms and was compromising her weakened immune system.

Barbara explained: “ A strict anti-candida diet together with a course of probiotic supplements was prescribed.  Two months later I feel so much better both physically and psychologically and whilst I will always have to be careful with my diet, I do feel I have turned the corner with my health condition.  I would recommend anyone suffering with similar symptoms to arrange a test with Marlene.”

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European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) /
EAACI: Food allergies in children cause anxiety and loneliness, have dramatic
impact on their quality of life
Processed and transmitted by Thomson Reuters.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Zurich/Venice, 21 February 2011 - Children who are allergic to food are found to
be suffering from anxiety and are increasingly more lonely; One allergic child
out of five never attends peers` parties, while one in four always brings along
"safe" food.

The burden of food allergies and the risk they can escalate to life-threatening
diseases is particularly heavy on children, whose normally active and sociable
lifestyle can be severely limited and frustrated by the effort to keep them away
from potentially dangerous food. According to a study presented at the 2011 Food
Allergy and Anaphylaxis Meeting by the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical
Immunology (EAACI), held Feb 17-19 in Venice, Italy, 23 percent of allergic
children are no longer curious to try new food to vary their diet, considered
too monotonous by most of them. A child out of ten also gives up crucial
physical activity for fear of anaphylactic shock triggered by exercise.

"About 17 percent of allergic children, regardless of their age, never go to a
party or a picnic with friends, while 24 percent are forced to bring along
something to eat," says Prof. Maria Antonella Muraro, Chair of the EAACI
Meeting. The study, headed by Prof. Muraro, was carried out by the Center for
the study and treatment of allergies and food intolerances at the hospital of
the University of Padua, Italy on 107 young patients and their mothers.

"Also, 5 to 15 per cent of cases of anaphylactic shock can be triggered by
physical activity following the consumption of small amounts of allergenic food
that would otherwise be harmless, so one allergic child out of ten also stops
every kind of exercise," Prof. Muraro added. "Allergies are often downplayed as
a minor problem, but the life of an allergic person can be hell. Allergic
children show to be more afraid of being sick and a higher level of anxiety
about food than children with diabetes. The constant alarm surrounding them is
taking a toll on their development and well-being."

Another worrisome problem adding to the poor quality of life of allergic
patients, especially the younger ones, is the need to carry life-saving devices
at all times, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, "loaded" with enough drug to
prevent death in case of severe anaphylactic shock. They are easy to use, light
to carry and discreet, but one out of three patients still leaves home without
them.

"Within 8 or 10 minutes the shot reverses the symptoms, ranging from urticaria
to respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse and gastrointestinal problems
including vomiting and diarrhoea," explains Prof. Muraro. "It can cause minor
side effects, such as irritability or tremors that end as soon as the adrenaline
is processed by the body, generally within a couple of hours. Patients should
not be scared, even those who have a heart disease: the possible side effects
are negligible in comparison to the opportunity to save your life."

EAACI has issued recommendations to prevent the spread of allergies in children,
encouraging mothers and family members who live with the child to stop smoking.
Eating fruits and vegetables, increasing the intake of antioxidants and vitamin
D is also supposed to provide further support in the prevention of allergic
diseases.
"The mechanisms of immuno-tolerance in human beings are still matter of research
although we are getting promising results. EAACI is committed in the next years
to devoting all necessary efforts to improve knowledge and raise awareness in
the field," says Prof. Cezmi Akdis, EAACI President-Elect.

"Double Allergy": 8.5 million Europeans are allergic to fruits, vegetables and
pollens

Hypersensitivity to pollens of trees such as birch, hazel or grasses that can
aggravate allergic reactions especially in spring is diagnosed in over 8.5
million people also allergic to food, showed research presented at the EAACI
Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Meeting. People suffering from a cross reaction
between food and pollen are often tormented by sneezing, tears, a burning
sensation on the tongue and swollen lips.
"Some of the proteins of trees` allergens are commonly found in other plant
species and the list of foods that cause a reaction with pollens extends
continuously," says Prof. Muraro. "Being allergic to peaches, apples, apricots
and plums often means not being able to tolerate birch pollen. Other plants that
are often causing problems include celery, fennel and soybeans as well as
tropical fruits such as avocado and passion fruit."

While peaches and apricots are responsible for a high number of allergic
reactions in Italy and Spain, apples are more likely to be a problem in France
and Germany. Plum is an issue in the UK, while celery and fennel make more
"victims" in Switzerland and Holland. The differences depend on the various
degrees of exposure to pollen or on dietary habits, but also on the diversity of
allergens found in fruits and vegetables in different countries.

Food Allergies and Yogurt: an unexpected help

Yogurt may be useful for the prevention and treatment of food allergies, shows
research presented at the EAACI Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Meeting.
"Probiotics have an effect on the immune system and restore optimal intestinal
flora," explains Prof. Susanne Halken, EAACI Pediatrics Section Chairperson.
"This may help the body to properly recognize the allergens, without triggering
a response to food that is, in itself, harmless. Moreover, lactic acid bacteria
have a well-known anti-inflammatory effect, which means that they can help ease
the symptoms of food allergies. Not all types of probiotics have been shown to
prevent or ease allergic symptoms though and beware that an effective dosage
would need to be much higher than what can be achieved simply by eating yogurt."


About EAACI:
EAACI - The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology is a non-profit
organisation active in the field of allergic and immunologic diseases such as
asthma, rhinitis, eczema, occupational allergy, food and drug allergy and
anaphylaxis. EAACI was founded in 1956 in Florence and has become the largest
medical association in Europe in the field of allergy and clinical immunology.
It includes 6`100 members from 107 countries, as well as 41 National Allergy
Societies.

Throughout 2011, EAACI will develop different activities to celebrate the 100th
anniversary of immunotherapy in Allergy, which will aim at increasing the
knowledge in this field among healthcare professionals, increase awareness in
the general population, and finally, promote the availability of immunotherapy
for allergic patients.

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DON`T LET HAY FEVER GET UP YOUR NOSE THIS SUMMER

For millions with hay fever, summer means suffering from symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. But it doesn`t have to be like that.

GRASS is a clinical research trial exploring long-term protection from the symptoms of hay fever.

Imperial College London is seeking men and women aged 18-65 to volunteer in the GRASS trial that is testing two currently available therapies for their long-term effectiveness in hay fever.

The GRASS trial will be conducted at Royal Brompton Hospital and Imperial College, London and led by Stephen Durham, MD - a leading specialist in allergies. The trial aims to test the long-term effectiveness of two commercially available hay fever treatments, Grazax® and Alutard SQ®.

The trial will begin between March and September 2011 and participants will remain in trial over a 3-year period, during which they will be provided with anti-allergy rescue medications including anti-histamines during the pollen season.

If eligible, you will receive medical advice about your hay fever as well as compensation for some study visits and travel expenses.

To find out more and register your interest, visit: www.hayfeverstudy.co.uk

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Simple management tips that will help reduce symptoms include

• Wearing wraparound sunglasses whilst outside.
• Sleeping with the windows closed at night, or invest in pollen screens.
• A smear of Vaseline around the nostrils will help prevent pollen going on to the soft tissues inside the nose.
• Washing your hair and changing your clothes when you get in from work or school stops pollens from being taken into the bedroom, preventing symptoms that can cause disturbed sleep.
• Starting medications such as antihistamines and eye drops a couple of weeks before your symptoms usually rather than waiting until you get the tell tale symptoms of hayfever will help keep things in control.
• Taking medications everyday throughout the season, not just when it is warm and sunny will also help manage symptoms more effectively.

Reference

[1] Walker S, Khan-Wasti S, Fletcher M, Cullinan P, Harris J, Sheilh A,. 2007. Seasonal Allergic rhinitis is associated with a detrimental effect on examination performance in United Kingdom teenagers: Case control study.

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Food Allergies May Be Cause of Unexplained Migraines

Kirk Bernard | Aug 08, 2011 | for people who suffer occasional migraine headaches that seem to have no trigger, one potential cause may be an unknown food allergy.

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Don’t Let Allergies, Asthma Haunt Halloween Fun
Six Hidden Triggers to Avoid

Halloween can be a frightful time for parents of kids with allergies and asthma. Nut-filled sweets isn’t the only bogeyman that can ruin the fun. Allergy and asthma triggers can hide in other, unexpected places, too, from dusty costumes to leering jack-o-lanterns.

“When people think of Halloween-associated allergies, they focus on sweets and often overlook many other potential triggers,” said Myron Zitt, M.D., past president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “By planning ahead, you can ensure not only safe treats, but also safe costumes, make up, accessories, and decorations.”

The ACAAI and its allergist members –  suggest watching out for these six sneaky triggers to keep Halloween sneeze-, wheeze- and reaction-free.

1. Tricky treats – Food allergy triggers abound on this sweet-filled holiday, and it’s not just the usual suspects such as chocolate that can hide triggers. An article published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology shows gummy bears and other seemingly innocent sweets may contain gelatine, a potential allergen which is a less common trigger. Your best bet? Consider taking your child to an allergist for help in developing a food allergy treatment plan.  For Halloween night, have some non-candy treats for your child such as stickers, pencils and small toys to swap for sweets.
2. Devilish costume details – Watch out for nickel in costume accessories, from cowboy belts and pirate swords to tiaras and magic wands. Nickel is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, which can make skin itchy and spoil trick-or-treating fun. 
3. Haunted hand-me-downs – Halloween costumes packed away in a box for months can be laden with dust mites, which trigger asthma and allergies. So unless you want your little one sneezing or wheezing from house to house, wash the hand-me-down costumes in hot water. Or consider visiting the store for a new costume.
4. Menacing makeup – Cheap Halloween makeup may include preservatives that can cause allergic reactions.  Instead, opt for higher quality theatre makeup.  Because it can take a few days for a rash, swelling or other reaction to appear, test the makeup on a small area of skin well in advance of Halloween.    
5. Frightful fog – If you’re considering renting a fog machine to make your house extra spooky, think again.  Fog – real or man-made – can trigger asthma in some sufferers.
6. Perilous pumpkins –Beware of pumpkin carving and pumpkin pie if you think you might be allergic. Pumpkin allergies, though rare, can cause everything from itching to chest tightness and can pop up quite suddenly, even if you haven’t had a problem before.  And keep in mind that pumpkin patches are often mouldy and dusty, allergy and asthma triggers for some. Consider buying a pumpkin from a greengrocer or supermarket.
7. Eerie eyes- If your Twilight fan is asking for colourful, vampire-inspired contact lenses, consider this warning from the Food and Drug Administration before saying “yes”. An eye doctor must measure each eye to properly fit the lenses and evaluate how the eye responds to contact lens wear. A poor fit can cause serious eye damage, including cornea scratches and infection, conjunctivitis (pink eye), decreased vision, and even blindness. Never buy the lenses from places that sell them without a prescription, such as street vendors, salons, novelty stores, and the Internet.

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Under eye dark circles are one of the most common dermatological complaints.

They result from issues such as stress, lack ofsleep or plain ill luck in the skin department. Sometimes, dark circles under the eyes even run in families. Under eye dark circles are more noticeable in people with fair skin or deep-set eyes. Despite common prevalence, simple solutions and treatments exist. Stressing over under eye dark circles and covering them with makeup is not the solution, but part of the problem. Today we are throwing some light on these dark circles and helping you make them disappear!

Causes
Allergies: Dark circles under the eyes can be the result of allergies to substances like pollen, dust, and pet dander; because people rub their itchy eyes. Food allergies or sensitivities can also contribute to dark circles. Contact me for further information.

Lack of sleep: Lack of sleep can make skin appear more pale, which allows blood vessels to be more visible through the skin, giving the appearance of bluish or dark circles.

Deficiencies and dehydration: Dark circles are also caused by the deficiency of iron in the body which is also known as anemia. Also, if the body lacks in vitamins it aggravates the dark circles. If the other symptoms of this prevail, a consultation with the doctor is a must. Acute dehydration is another reason for dark circles to appear.

Alcohol and smoking: Excessive alcohol intake and excessive smoking also cause dark circles.

Prevention:
Getting enough sleep: Sleeping for at least eight hours a day is required to stabilize the metabolism of the body.

Eating right: Eating foods that are rich in vitamins B6, C, and D, as well as folic acid and iron is essential. It is also important to consume foods high in antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables.

Drinking right: Drink a lot of water. It detoxes the body and clears away the toxins causing skin problems. Avoid alcohol as much as you can, reduction in the quantity of intake will also help prevent dark circles.

Quit smoking: Along with causing serious illnesses, smoking also shows below your eyes. That momentary kick is also responsible for so many serious health issues. Quitting is easier than you think.

Remedies:
Hydrate the skin: Applying slices of cucumber, whole figs, mint leaves, pieces of potato or wet tea bags over the eyes for 15 minutes can decrease the appearance of under eye dark circles.

Massaging: Massaging almond, avocado, grape seed, jojoba, olive, peanut or sesame essential oils into the circles can fade existing ones while preventing new ones.

Protect yourself: The sun has a damaging effect on the skin, and the under eye skin is very thin. Therefore applying sunscreen and wearing shades will help reduce dark circles.

Oxidize: Foods such as cranberries, blueberries, black currant, onions, legumes, and parsley contain antioxidant pigments.

Consult your doctor
Dark circles may have a deeper cause than just being a dermatological ailment. It is sometimes linked to kidney malfunctions. If they persist even after all the prevention and remedies, asking your doctor for a consultation would be a good idea.

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Find out important patient information for the most common medications used to treat allergies and asthma. Learn about what a medication is used for, who shouldn`t take it, common side effects, and interactions with other medications. Pictures of the medication (pills, capsules, bottles, etc) are also shown.

http://allergies.about.com/od/medicationinformation/Information_on_the_Most_Common_Allergy_Medications.htm

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