The Signs and Symptoms of a Cayenne Pepper Allergy

Cayenne, also called capsicum, is a type of chili pepper that is pungent, spicy, and known for its red color. Many people use cayenne pepper as a spice in the meals they make. But how spicy the cayenne is depends on the concentration of capsaicinoids, which are alkaloid compounds that irritate skin and mucous membranes. For example, red peppers have higher levels of capsaicinoids (which make them spicier), whereas paprika has lower concentrations.

But a person can have a cayenne pepper allergy or intolerance. This can cause a variety of symptoms. Here’s why that happens, plus how to spot the signs.

What Causes a Cayenne Pepper Allergy?

Your immune system works to protect you from illness by using white blood cells to attack foreign substances that may cause disease, according to Mayo Clinic. So when it comes to a cayenne allergy, your immune system incorrectly identifies capsaicinoids as dangerous and stimulates mast cells (a type of immune cell) to produce histamine to help destroy the capsaicinoids.

Histamine is a chemical that your immune system releases when an allergen enters your system, according to Cleveland Clinic. And when histamine gets released, that’s when you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction.

That said, if your immune system recognizes cayenne as an allergen, you may start developing symptoms. This may occur immediately or up to a few hours after exposure to the cayenne.

Early Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a cayenne pepper allergy may look similar to other spice allergies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI). These symptoms may include skin rash or hives, itchiness in the mouth, and coughing.

Mayo Clinic also says that people who have any type of food allergy may also experience swelling in the lips, face, tongue, or throat; diarrhea, nausea, trouble breathing, nasal congestion, and dizziness.

Severe Symptoms

Some people may also develop a more severe reaction to allergens. This type of allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis. The AAAAI explains that while anaphylaxis is rare for spice allergies, there have been some reports of anaphylaxis in people with allergies to spices like cayenne pepper and oregano.

According to Cleveland Clinic, anaphylaxis can be life-threatening, so knowing the symptoms is essential. These symptoms are swelling in your throat, lips, and tongue, hives, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, chest tightness, cramps, wheezing, and vomiting. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis may also include low blood pressure and a weak or rapid pulse, according to Mayo Clinic.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to reach out for medical care immediately.