Corn Allergies & Acne

Although corn allergies are not considered a common food allergy, they have the same symptoms and affects of other food-related allergies, according to Allergic Child 1. Corn is difficult to avoid because it is in many processed and prepacked foods in the form of corn syrup, a sweetener. Corn allergies can cause inflammation in the skin, which can increase the risk of developing acne. If you suffer from unpleasant side effects after eating products containing corn, talk with a doctor for testing.

Cause

A corn allergy is caused by a mistake in the immune system. The proteins in corn cause the immune system to react the same way it would to a virus. IgE antibodies are produced and released in the bloodstream to ward off the corn. The antibodies cause mast cells to produce various chemicals, including histamine, the hormone responsible for common allergy symptoms. The hormone causes inflammation and irritation in various parts of the body.

Common Symptoms

Histamines & Acne

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Common symptoms of a corn allergy are skin irritation, digestive issues, nasal congestion and asthma, according to MayoClinic.com 1. Skin irritation can cause an outbreak of hives or eczema, highly itchy rashes that cause inflammation in the skin. Digestive issues include bloating, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Nasal congestion can lead to a runny nose, sneezing and sinus pressure. Asthma symptoms from a corn allergy include shortness of breathe, chest pain and coughing.

Acne Consideration

Food Allergy Solutions states that food allergies might be one of the most common reasons for increased acne 12. The link between a corn allergy and acne is the irritation, inflammation and increased toxins in the surface of the skin during an allergic reaction to corn. Not all acne is caused by an allergy to corn and needs to be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Treatment

Corn Allergy & Rash

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The most effective way to treat corn-related allergy is to avoid corn products. Allergic Child states that corn is found in various items that might not be obvious, such as:

• caramel coloring
  
• cornmeal
  
• baking powder
  
• maize
  
• confectioners’ sugar
  
• sorbitol

Minor allergy symptoms from a corn allergy might be treated with antihistamines, according to MayoClinic.com, but antihistamines are not an effective treatment for acne 1.

Warning

An allergy to corn can lead to anaphylactic shock, an extreme allergic reaction that can lead to death. If you experience common anaphylactic shock symptoms, such as a drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness, mental confusion, flushing of the skin or rapid heart rate, call 911 immediately. An injection of epinephrine is required to alleviate anaphylaxis.