I've had a bizarre allergy to a combination of foods since I was a child. We somehow narrowed it down to if I eat chocolate and paprika (spice) within the same day, I have a moderately severe reaction. I have ended up in the hospital several times due to this reaction, and I want to know: 1) Is this even possible/real? 2) Is there a way to get rid of it, other than just avoiding one or both foods?
I know right away when I'm having a reaction. Something just feels wrong. Then I start itching. After a few minutes I get severe stomach cramps and vomiting (one ER doc said this is due to internal hives?) If untreated with antihistamines, I get external hives as well and vomit and have diarrhea until I'm so dehydrated I have to be taken to the emergency room. I've never gone into anaphylaxis, thank goodness, and I don't react at all when I have the foods separately.
The problem is, this reaction is happening all the time, and I'm sick of it!! The other day I ate some cake my brother brought home, unaware it was made with cocoa. That night we went out for Mexican food and I ordered the rojo salsa with my enchiladas. I was sick for several days! Please advise.
Thank you,
Annie