Histamine occurs naturally in the body and plays a crucial role in many functions, including the immune response, digestion, and neurotransmission. However, when histamine levels become too high, it can lead to histamine intolerance.
Histamine intolerance is a condition where the body is unable to break down histamine effectively, leading to symptoms that can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.
Common symptoms of histamine intolerance are:
- Headaches: Headaches are a common symptom of histamine intolerance, often caused by the dilatation of blood vessels in the brain.
- Skin rashes: Rashes, hives, and itching are common symptoms of histamine intolerance, often caused by the release of histamine in the skin.
- Nasal congestion: Histamine can cause nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose, making breathing difficult.
- Abdominal pain: Histamine intolerance can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea, disrupting daily life.
- Fatigue: Histamine intolerance can cause fatigue, weakness, and feelings of being unwell, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
- Flushing: Flushing, or redness and warmth in the skin, is a common symptom of histamine intolerance.
- Chest pain: Chest pain and tightness can be a symptom of histamine intolerance, often caused by the release of histamine in the heart and blood vessels.
The consumption of histamine-rich foods, such as fermented products, aged cheeses, cured meats, alcohol, stress, and certain medications, can trigger the above symptoms.
It is important to note that other conditions can also cause these symptoms, so speak with a healthcare provider to receive a proper diagnosis.