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What Causes Hives And Serious Stomach Upset Post Consumption Of Iodine?

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Posted on Thu, 14 Apr 2016
Question: Hello:

I am looking for some input on iodine allergies and if there is such a thing. I have read contradicting information (a few articles saying there is no such thing as we all have iodine in our body). I break out in hives on my body and have serious stomach problems with shellfish and heard it could be something in the scales, not iodine. I had a CT scan as a teenager and the contrast made my eyelids blow up into hives. Fortunately, I was at the hospital when it happened. I don’t add a lot of table salt to my foods, but I know I am getting iodine through some foods, like strawberries (not my favorite fruit), potatoes (once in a while), salt sneaking in from other sources, greens, etc.. I don’t notice any outward reactions to this intake.

I have an autoimmune disorder, CIDP, and am really trying to make sure I have a well balanced meal of the nutrients I need. I am pesce-vegetarian and don’t eat a lot of eggs, dairy. I do eat a lot of vegetables. I’d like to increase foods I eat rich in iodine, just a bit more. Is it likely I have an iodine allergy and if so, is this something I should test with an allergist before I increase foods rich in it? I've never been tested officially for allergies.

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Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Yes, you should get done allergy testing.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic.
I can understand your concern.
In my opinion, you should get done allergy testing for food items.
Possibility of iodine allergy is less.
In the past your symptoms might be due to iodine related acute renal damage.
So iodine allergy is less likely in your case.
Possibility of food allergy is more. And so consult allergist and get done food allergy testing.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Drkaushal85

Pulmonologist

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 15005 Questions

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What Causes Hives And Serious Stomach Upset Post Consumption Of Iodine?

Brief Answer: Yes, you should get done allergy testing. Detailed Answer: Thanks for your question on Health Care Magic. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, you should get done allergy testing for food items. Possibility of iodine allergy is less. In the past your symptoms might be due to iodine related acute renal damage. So iodine allergy is less likely in your case. Possibility of food allergy is more. And so consult allergist and get done food allergy testing. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.