What is Histaminosis and How Does it Affect Health?

Let’s talk about histaminosis. You might be familiar with the term, as it is related to common conditions such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other digestive problems, as well as migraines and skin rashes.

Dr. Beatriz Orts, a specialist at SHA, explains that to understand histaminosis, one must first know about histamine, a small molecule that, when altered, disrupts several functions of the body.

“Histamine plays an important role in the immune system and the regulation of various bodily functions. It is released in response to allergies and injuries and is involved in the inflammatory response. It also affects the dilation of blood vessels and the contraction of smooth muscles, like those in the respiratory tract. Histamine also influences sleep and appetite regulation.”

When talking about histaminosis, histamine has entered a pathological state. “This can occur due to excessive accumulation or dysfunction in the regulation of this substance because of a deficiency in its degrading enzyme. The term histamine intolerance is also used to describe a condition in which the body cannot break down histamine properly, leading to symptoms like headaches, hives, digestive problems, and other allergic reactions,” explains the doctor.

This condition can be associated with a deficiency of the diamine oxidase (DAO) enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down histamine in the body and eliminating it to prevent the disruptions that cause this range of symptoms.

Histaminosis manifests with a variety of symptoms that often resemble allergic reactions. The most common include digestive issues (bloating, gas, diarrhea, or abdominal pain), skin symptoms (hives, itching, or redness), respiratory symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing, or difficulty breathing), neurological symptoms (headaches, migraines, or dizziness), and cardiovascular symptoms (palpitations or changes in blood pressure). Dr. Orts notes that symptoms may vary in intensity and often appear after consuming foods rich in histamine or when the body has difficulty metabolizing it.

Living with histaminosis and allowing it to become a chronic condition is not advisable, as it can lead to several long-term issues, such as persistent allergic reactions that significantly impact quality of life and create a constant sense of discomfort. Histaminosis can also cause chronic inflammation due to constant exposure to elevated histamine levels. This inflammatory state can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases or exacerbate existing inflammatory conditions.

Some chronic digestive issues are also associated with histamine intolerance, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Histaminosis has also been linked to mental health imbalances and a reduced quality of life, affecting daily activities, work, and social life.

“It is essential to seek proper treatment and adjust diet and lifestyle to manage histaminosis and minimize its long-term effects,” says the SHA expert, explaining that the most effective approach to histaminosis is often multifaceted and includes several strategies.

A low-histamine diet would be a good start. Some foods like aged cheeses, processed meats, canned fish, wine, and fermented foods are rich in histamine, while others, with certain additives or spoilage, can release this substance. Dr. Orts recommends keeping a food diary to identify which foods trigger symptoms.

Antihistamine medications can help reduce symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. These should be used under a doctor’s supervision. DAO enzyme supplements, which help break down histamine, can also be beneficial. Taking DAO supplements before meals may help some people.

It’s also advisable to avoid additional triggers that can worsen symptoms, including stress, certain medications, or sudden temperature changes. The doctor explains that addressing associated medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders or enzyme deficiencies, can also help control histaminosis.

“At SHA, these strategies are implemented comprehensively by our clinical team to help patients with histaminosis better understand their condition and reduce crisis phases. You can live a normal life if you follow the recommendations and treatment, which at SHA are always personalized.”

Is Histaminosis Reversible or Lifelong?

“Histaminosis doesn’t necessarily have a point of no return. The condition can be managed, and in many cases, symptoms can be significantly reduced or even controlled with lifestyle changes and appropriate treatment,” explains the expert. She adds, “Although histamine intolerance cannot always be cured permanently, many individuals experience significant improvement in their symptoms and can lead a normal life.”