Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world.
Many people start their morning with a delicious coffee, because caffeine, a natural tonic, stimulates nerve cells in the brain, improves mood and reduces the feeling of fatigue.
You may be surprised, however, that some people are allergic to coffee beans and also experience quite severe discomfort.
It should be noted that it is quite possible to have a sensitivity to caffeine and not a coffee allergy. With some symptoms you will be able to distinguish between these two conditions.
Allergic reactions to drinking coffee are very rare.
An allergic reaction to coffee beans is caused by the immune system, which perceives a substance in the coffee cell as a threat to the body, therefore, symptoms characteristic of an allergy occur. The immune system fights coffee in the same way it fights bacteria and viruses.
Symptoms of a coffee allergy
A true coffee allergy can cause serious symptoms in the body, usually within the first hours after it has been drunk. Symptoms can affect many areas of the body and will usually get worse over time.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to coffee include:
- skin rashes, such as hives or blotches of red skin
- nausea and vomiting
- trouble swallowing
- shortness of breath or difficulty catching a breath
- a wheezing cough
- stomach or abdominal cramps
- diarrhea
- reduced color in the skin
- weak pulse or a sudden drop in blood pressure
- dizziness or loss of consciousness
Severe allergic reactions may lead to anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Coffee sensitivity
Many people with coffee sensitivities mistakenly think that they are allergic to it.Sensitivity to coffee can create its own problematic symptoms, but they are usually not life- threatening.
Symptoms of a coffee sensitivity can include:
- feelings of jitteriness and unease
- irritability
- anxiety or nervousness
- trouble sleeping or insomnia
- upset stomach
- abdominal cramps
- elevated heartbeat or blood pressure
- involuntary muscle spasms
Symptoms caused by sensitivity to coffee will usually go away if the person stops drinking coffee.
However, some people may think they have allergies, although the symptoms can quite be caused by consuming large amounts of coffee.
If you have a reaction to coffee, you are advised to avoid different types of drinks and foods made from coffee beans.
If the body reacts badly to caffeine, limit both caffeinated beverages and products (coffee, black, green and white tea, energy drinks, some carbonated and sweet drinks, cocoa, chocolate).
