Gelatin Allergy: Symptoms, Vaccine Concerns & Reactions

Gelatin is a tasteless, colorless and odorless concoction of proteins. It dissolves when added to hot water and it becomes a jelly when cooled. Gelatin is not simply the main ingredient in Jell-O, it is also used in many dishes and food preparations. Some vaccines (measles, mumps, rubella, rabies, shingles) contain gelatin.

Vaccine Allergy Symptoms

• An allergic reaction from vaccines containing gelatin appear quite quickly after receiving the vaccine. A reaction can appear with the following symptoms: hives, low blood pressure, a runny nose and lightheadedness.

Weight Loss

• If a person suffers from an allergy to gelatin that is dismissed or unnoticed, weight loss and nutritional deficiencies can manifest.

Symptoms in the Mouth

• An allergy to gelatin may cause a tingling in the mouth and the lips. The two may also become swollen.

Difficulty Breathing and Swallowing

• A gelatin allergy may cause the throat to constrict and become swollen, blocking the airways. Difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock may follow.

Nausea

• An allergic reaction from gelatin may also cause nausea and other stomach ailments.

Read the Label

• Many foods you may never have considered do contain gelatin. Always check the labels and ingredients to avoid an allergic attack.