Understanding Sesame Allergy

Sesame allergy is a serious condition that occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies sesame proteins as harmful. It is recognized as one of the 14 major allergens under UK and EU food labelling laws, highlighting its potential severity and prevalence. Below, we explore the symptoms, causes, hidden sources, diagnosis, treatment, and precautions associated with sesame allergy.

Common Symptoms

Sesame allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically manifest within minutes to a few hours of exposure:

  • Mild Symptoms:
    • Urticaria (hives or rash)
    • Swelling of lips, eyes, or face
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Itchy or tingling sensations in the mouth
  • Severe Symptoms:
    • Anaphylaxis, which includes difficulty breathing, throat tightness, or tongue swelling
    • A drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment with adrenaline (e.g., an EpiPen) and emergency medical care. It is critical for those at risk to have an action plan in place.

Causes and Triggers

Sesame allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to proteins in sesame seeds or sesame-containing products. Upon exposure, the body releases chemicals like histamine, triggering allergic symptoms. Factors contributing to this condition include:

  • Genetic predisposition: Family history of allergies increases the likelihood.
  • Other allergies: Sesame allergy is commonly linked with peanut allergies and less frequently with other seeds such as sunflower or mustard.

Hidden Sources of Sesame

Sesame can be present in many unexpected foods, making vigilance essential:

  • Common foods:
    • Tahini, hummus, and halvah
    • Bakery items (bread, bagels, pastries, breadsticks)
    • Vegetarian burgers and stir-fries
    • Middle Eastern, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines
  • Unexpected sources:
    • Pre-packed salads, soups, and dips
    • Cereals, muesli, and health bars
    • Some herbal drinks and medications

Sesame oil, often used in cooking, cosmetics, and medicines, may also cause reactions due to residual proteins. Cross-contamination is a significant concern, especially in bakery settings where sesame seeds are widely used.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosing sesame allergy involves:

  1. Medical history: Discussing symptoms and possible exposure with a healthcare professional.
  2. Skin prick tests or blood tests: Identifying the presence of allergic antibodies.
  3. Oral food challenge: Conducted in a controlled medical setting to confirm the allergy.

Treatment

  • Mild reactions: Antihistamines can alleviate symptoms such as hives and mild swelling.
  • Severe reactions: An adrenaline auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) is essential for managing anaphylaxis. Patients should carry this at all times.
  • Regular follow-up with an allergy specialist is recommended, especially for children, to update treatment plans as needed.

Precautions to Take

  1. Read labels: UK law mandates clear labelling of sesame in pre-packaged foods, but vigilance is still required for cross-contamination and non-pre-packaged foods.
  2. Ask questions: When dining out, confirm with staff whether a dish contains sesame or has been prepared in a sesame-free environment.
  3. Educate others: Inform schools, workplaces, and caregivers about the allergy and provide clear instructions for managing exposure and reactions.
  4. Carry medical identification: Wearing a MedicAlert bracelet can help communicate the allergy in emergencies.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

  • Children: Many sesame allergies are diagnosed in early childhood.
  • Individuals with other allergies: Those allergic to peanuts or tree nuts are more likely to develop sesame allergy.
  • Family history: A predisposition to allergies increases the risk.

Living with Sesame Allergy

Although living with a sesame allergy can present significant challenges, effective management strategies can greatly reduce risks. Key approaches include staying vigilant about food labelling, communicating clearly in social and dining situations, and educating those around you about the condition.

Support networks and resources, such as national allergy organisations, can provide guidance, while regularly consulting with an allergy specialist ensures that management plans remain effective and up to date. With awareness and preparation, individuals with sesame allergy can navigate daily life safely and confidently.

Resources

  1. NHS Sesame Allergy Factsheet
  2. Allergy UK Sesame Allergy Guidance
  3. Anaphylaxis Campaign Sesame Management
  4. British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology (BSACI)
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.