Yeast Allergy Symptoms

Naturally occurring yeasts have been used safely for thousands of years to convert fresh fruits and grains into a wide variety of edible products that can be kept for extended periods of time. Although most reactions to yeast involve infections by pathogenic varieties, a small proportion of the population may show signs of allergic reactions to yeast products that should be brought to the attention of a qualified allergist.

Infections

Symptoms of allergies may resemble those of infections by pathogenic yeasts such as Candida albicans. Symptoms that persist after treatment may actually be due to an allergy rather than an infection, and an allergist should be consulted.

Fatigue

If moderate consumption of bread or wine is followed by a tired feeling, wheat or gluten allergies and sugar-related illnesses such as Type 2 diabetes should be ruled out before assuming that the symptoms are due to a yeast allergy.

Respiratory System

Sneezing, runny nose and puffy eyes may actually be symptoms of an allergy to yeast, and continuing irritation may lead to asthma-like symptoms of wheezing and shortness of breath.

Head

Other symptoms similar to viruses or other fungal allergies are headaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and difficulty in concentrating.

Digestion

Moderate ingestion of yeast by an allergy sufferer can cause digestive upsets, abdominal pain and bowel irregularities including constipation, incomplete digestion (food in stools), diarrhea and flatulence.

Skin

A yeast allergy can cause red and itchy skin, and can contribute to eczema, an inflammation leading to crusting, flaking and bleeding.

Emotional

In extreme cases, a yeast allergy can manifest itself in behavioral and emotional symptoms like depression, inattentiveness, distractibility and hypersensitivity.