by William Menna

Created on: March 30, 2010

The members of the nightshade family of foods include potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and a few other vegetables.  Allergies to nightshade are uncommon.  According to the Mayo Clinic, only about five percent of the population has any food allergy at all, and nine out of ten of them are associated with nuts, seafood, dairy, wheat, and soybeans.  While a tiny fraction of people are affected by nightshade allergies, those who are afflicted face a dangerous condition which should be treated with great caution.

Tomato, potato, pepper, and other nightshade allergies can produce reactions of varying severity.  In minor allergic reactions, symptoms of allergies to nightshade can include swelling, itching, or tingling in the mouth or lips, according to the National Institutes of Health.  Bloating, nausea, and vomiting can occur.  Skin can develop hives or another rash, particularly on the face.  In more pronounced reactions, additional symptoms include lightheadedness and difficulty breathing.

In severe nightshade allergic reactions, anaphylaxis can occur.  In anaphylaxis, the body begins to go into shock as blood pressure falls and heart rate rises.  The airways can become constricted and swift treatment is necessary.  Per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, anaphylaxis affects tens of thousands of Americans every year with the worst reactions leading to hospitalization and sometimes even death.

Severe allergic reactions to nightshade and other food allergies can be slowed or stopped altogether with and immediate epinephrine injection from an EpiPen or another injector.  Carrying an EpiPen is important for anyone with food allergies in order to stifle unexpected reactions from becoming a danger.  Antihistamines can also be effective at dealing with allergic reactions.  If an allergic reaction sets in, medical attention should be obtained regardless of whether epinephrine or antihistamines have been used.  Talk to your doctor before choosing any allergy interventions.

A true food allergy is not necessary for an allergic reaction to nightshade to occur.  What may seem like allergies to nightshade foods may actually be an allergic reaction to latex.  According to the Better Health Channel of Australia, latex and tomatoes as well as other nightshade vegetables share several common proteins.  As such, when someone with a latex allergy eats one of these foods, they can experience a reaction involving nasal congestion, an itchy mouth or tongue, and a scratchy throat.

The nightshade family of foods is prominently featured in many food products.  Though these allergies are very rare and most frequently associated with a latex allergy, their reactions can be quite serious.  If you have been diagnosed with allergies to nightshade, always monitor food labels when eating and identify the presence of any nightshade ingredients when dining out.  For further information about allergies to nightshade, talk to your doctor.

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