Is it possible to be allergic to vitamin C: facts and speculations

An allergy to vitamin C or ascorbic acid is a rare phenomenon worth knowing about. Although many people consider it a myth, cases of allergic reactions to ascorbic acid do occur. In this article, an experienced allergist will tell you if you can be allergic to vitamin C, what it looks like and how to treat it.

Symptoms of vitamin C allergy

Allergies to ascorbic acid can manifest with a variety of symptoms, including skin manifestations (rashes, itching, urticaria), quincke's edema, GI disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), as well as more serious reactions such as anaphylactic shock.

Causes of vitamin C allergies

One of the causes of allergies to vitamin C can be an individual intolerance, which occurs due to disorders of the immune system. In this case, the body perceives vitamin C as a hostile substance and begins to attack it.

Sometimes an allergy to ascorbic acid can be the result of a cross-reaction, when the immune system mistakenly considers vitamin C an allergen because of its similarity to other substances that cause allergies.

The use of low-quality supplements containing synthetic vitamin C can cause an allergic reaction. Such supplements may contain various impurities that cause allergies.

Diagnosis of vitamin C allergy

• To diagnose a vitamin C allergy, the allergist first collects a history and examines the clinical manifestations. It is important to tell the doctor about all the medications and supplements you were taking before the allergic reaction occurred.
• Provocation tests can be performed to confirm the diagnosis of vitamin C allergy. However, these tests are only done in a hospital setting and under a doctor's supervision because they can cause serious allergic reactions.
• In some cases, the doctor may recommend an exceptional diet in which the intake of vitamin C is eliminated for a certain period of time to determine whether it causes an allergic reaction.

Treatment of vitamin C allergies

The main treatment for vitamin C allergy is to eliminate contact with the allergen. This means avoiding taking drugs and supplements containing ascorbic acid.

Antihistamines such as Cetirizine, Loratadine or Fexofenadine may be prescribed to relieve the symptoms of allergies. They can help with itching, swelling, and other manifestations of the allergy.

Depending on the symptoms of the allergy, your doctor may also prescribe symptomatic treatment, including the use of creams and ointments to treat skin symptoms, medications to relieve swelling and normalize the gastrointestinal tract.

Vitamin C allergy in children

Vitamin C allergy in children can manifest similarly to adults, but the symptoms may be more pronounced. It is important to closely monitor the child when taking preparations or supplements with ascorbic acid and consult a doctor at the first sign of an allergy.

To prevent vitamin C allergies in children, a number of measures should be followed: use quality products and supplements, control the dosage of vitamin C, and avoid synthetic analogs if the child is prone to allergies.

Vitamin C allergy, while rare, is a fairly serious condition that can lead to unpleasant consequences. If you or your child has symptoms of allergies after taking ascorbic acid products or supplements, be sure to see an allergist. Timely detection of allergies and proper treatment can help avoid further complications and keep you healthy.