Sulfite Allergy becoming more manageable after only 1 week!!!
"I've had allergy/intolerance of sulfites develop 4 years ago. I've only gotten more sensitive and have a reaction to the smallest amounts. In small quantities, I sneeze a lot, my eyes get red and watery, stuffy nose and sinus headaches. If I continue to eat sulfites over 3-4 in small amounts I get very itchy, hot to the touch, my face and eyes get very puffy. Any longer than that and I will break out into hives. Just avoiding them is easier said than done, as it's not required by the FDA to list sulfites as an ingredient if used in small amounts. It also occurs naturally in some foods, like onions (particularly red) and shellfish, and is used to preserve food like spices and even some fresh fruit and vegetables!
It's been a struggle trying to find what will help relieve the symptoms and keep this under control. I take benadryl every 4 hours, Allegra every 24 and Aleve D every 12 hrs when my symptoms are severe. It sounds like a lot, but my body is so used to it now. I've also found a combination of certain herbal supplements that help to relieve the discomfort as well. In my search for more natural supplements, so I can slowly stop taking OTC meds, I came across an article written about Quercetin/Bromelain used specifically for sulfite and seasonal allergies and thought I'd give it a try.
The first day, I didn't notice anything, nor the second and I was beginning to think I wasted my money. But by the 3rd day I started to notice that I didn't start to sneeze or get itchy if I didn't take the Benadryl at that regular 4 hr mark. I was craving a burger and fries from a certain rest. that I know I've had bad reactions to in the past but couldn't resist. I ate the food, then took my Bromelain, as I continued to do with meals 2-3 times a day. I had a brief itchy feeling but it quickly subsided. I pushed my luck the next day and ate pancakes, syrup and bacon at Denny's (something that would also cause a reaction), but it didn't. It seems like I am able to tolerate sulfites without a histamine response when I take this regularly. I didn't have to take my Aleve D as I normally would as a 3rd back up and didn't feel discomfort if I didn't take Benadryl right away either. I might be able to enjoy salad dressings again soon! This is exciting and big progress for me!!! I've only been taking for a week now but will continue to monitor my reactions/tolerance levels. This could literally change my life!!!"
