[43F] With sensitivity to scents and foods causing throat symptoms
Patient Description
A 43-year-old female has been experiencing sensitivity to a wide variety of scents and foods for the past two years. Exposure to irritants such as perfumes, essential oils, smoke, and certain foods leads to symptoms including throat tightness, post-nasal drip, mild dry cough with occasional phlegm, and difficulty swallowing. The cough can sometimes sound like a slight wheeze but is not accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath. The patient does not experience skin rash, hives, or chest tightness during these reactions. Relief is found with Benadryl and avoidance of triggers. The patient also reports reactions to foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, most fruits (except bananas, strawberries, and avocados), herbal teas, herbs, spices, chocolate, lemon, processed foods, garlic, and peppers. No history of asthma or other respiratory conditions. No evaluation by an allergist or ENT specialist has been conducted.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Your symptoms suggest a condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) or Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (IEI). This condition involves adverse reactions to various environmental chemicals and foods, leading to symptoms like throat tightness, cough, and difficulty swallowing.
Another possibility is Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS), where certain foods cause allergic reactions, often related to pollen allergies.
Typical treatments or testing might include:
- Allergy Testing: To identify specific triggers.
- Avoidance Strategies: To minimize exposure to known irritants.
- Medications: Antihistamines like Benadryl can help manage symptoms.
What you can do
Manage Sensitivities:
- Continue avoiding known triggers like certain scents and foods.
- Use air purifiers to reduce airborne irritants at home.
Symptom Relief:
- Keep taking Benadryl as needed, but consult a healthcare provider for long-term management.
- Stay hydrated to help with throat irritation and post-nasal drip.
Dietary Adjustments:
- Maintain a food diary to track reactions and identify patterns.
- Consider consulting a dietitian for safe food alternatives.
Use MDandMe:
- Journal your symptoms and triggers to track progress.
- Share your notes with a healthcare provider for better insights.
What you should look out for
- Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling.
- Monitor for new symptoms that might indicate other underlying conditions.
- Consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Remember, while I can provide guidance, it's important to seek care from a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
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4 mo ago
