What could have caused this allergic reaction?

[TeenLifeMum]

I start by saying that I realise it’s unlikely random people on the internet will know but you might have suggestions so here goes.

I have a latex allergy which triggers my asthma. Usually my hands swell and I feel itchy everywhere then asthma kicks in but I can control it with antihistamines and inhalers. I’ve avoided a reaction by taking antihistamines before going to parties with balloons and staying away from touching as much as possible.

Last night I didn’t touch any latex and was sat outside a friend’s party. I ate a slice of home made chocolate cake with a little butter icing and very suddenly my chin and neck went red and itchy and I had an asthma attack. We went straight home to get my medication and I’m now totally exhausted this morning. I went really cold - ended up wrapped in a duvet when it was still warm and dh and dc were sleeping with no covers. It was a bit scary although not an anaphylactic reaction. What could have been in the cake?

It really could be anything at all. People will probably come along and suggest it was nuts, as 'everyone' seems to associate nuts with allergies, but it's just as likely to be wheat, milk, eggs or any number of other things.

Start keeping a food diary.

I don't think nuts would have that kind of response though.

Were there any flavourings in any of the food?

Certain food allergies are common in people with a latex allergy. It’s various fruits as far as I know. Have a google and ask your friend what was in the cake. Hope you’re ok.

Dates?

I don't have a severe reaction like you do but dates as an ingredient in food irritates my void. It's used in a lot of vegan food.

Makes my throat itch ^

A nurse doing pre treatment questions mentioned recently something that affects people with a latex allergy. A flavouring in a medication or something. Some sort of fruit. I can't for the life of me remember what it was, sorry! But some sort of flavouring in the cake would be my guess.

Pineapple and kiwi are related to latex. Could it have been either of those and not the cake?

Could be anything, allergies can develop at any time in your life.
I would recommend you get a referral to an allergist (or see one privately) to get a full test done on foods.

I do have a friend that is allergic to chocolate.

Strange question but were you wearing any new clothes?

Could the person who made the cake have been wearing latex gloves when they made it? Or maybe used a latex thing for icing it?

You often see chefs wearing gloves while cooking, could the person who made the cake have been wearing gloves?

possible re gloves although (slightly surprisingly) the fondant icing was removed so only the actual cake and a thin layer of butter cream was served. So I can’t imagine gloves touched that part much? It’s so frustrating having unclear allergies. I’m fine with nuts but dd3 is allergic to coconut - only the white bit and whatever they use in lots of sun creams.

Re-reading your OP and it does look like you were showing skin, airways/breathing and also possibly circulatory symptoms (the feeling cold indicates possible BP drop) and together these are indicators of anaphylaxis.

You really do need to get medical advice on this as your reaction does sound serious and asthma is a significant risk factor in anaphylaxis.

@Yarnysaura will a gp do anything after the event when I’m fine now?

You should be referred to an allergy specialist. This was a serious reaction and shouldn't be ignored.