?allergy to paprika

[Izabella]

Can a child be allergic to paprika? Severe itching after eating products containing this spice. Our son has eczema over much of his body.

[Carina Venter]

Dear Izabella

This is probably a very controversial answer, but paprika is considered moderate to high in salicylates which can cause a flare in some children with particularly eczema.

I am not suggesting all high salicylate foods - but the amount in paprika may just be a trigger. Most spices such as curries are high in salicylates as well peppermint etc.

Saying that, paprika is part of the Capsicum family; Sweet Pepper, Paprika, Bell Pepper, Green Pepper, Hungarian Pepper, Red Pepper, Pimento, Pimiento and allergy to these have been published and reported.

Carina

[Dr Adam Fox]

Hi
I have also seen children have classical allergic reactions after this albeit very rare. Its worth an allergy test but you will need to take some paprika with you to the appt to get this done