Problems with histamine: How do they manifest themselves?
If the body reacts sensitively to histamine, everyone experiences this in different ways. The usual reactions include gastrointestinal complaints, headaches, rashes or breathing difficulties. Often, the symptoms are similar to those of an allergy. The severity of the complaints can vary significantly – from a temporary runny nose to severe migraines.
Reaction times are also very different. In some people, reactions such as sudden flushes or a runny nose occur just ten minutes after eating histamine-rich food. However, it may take as long as an hour for stomach cramps or diarrhea to occur. Sometimes, complaints such as a headache occur even later.
The fact that there is no set histamine content of foodstuffs makes eating even harder. It is therefore possible that someone has a severe reaction to a certain foodstuff one day and then not at all on another occasion.
Common reactions to Histamine Intolerance
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Gastrointestinal complaints
Nausea, diarrhea, stomach ache, cramps or flatulence are typical complaints. They usually occur at least an hour after consumption. -
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Headaches
Headaches after eating foodstuffs that contain histamine can develop quickly or some time afterwards.
Migraines can also be a sign that the body cannot break down histamine sufficiently. -
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Rash
The skin can also react to impaired histamine breakdown: with a rash, itching, swelling or reddening. -
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Breathing problems
The respiratory tract can also be affected. Signs of this range from a tickle in the throat, a congested or runny nose to asthma attacks. -
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Cardiovascular
Histamine problems can manifest themselves in the form of heart palpitations or dizziness.
