Rash on the face with swollen lips and eyelids, taking allergy medicines. Had eaten spicy food. What is the cause and remedy?
Patient: Four days ago I ate something spicy and now I am just beginning to develop a rash on my face. My lips are also swollen as are my eyelids. The itchiness is most severe around my lips and eyes. I have not eaten anything out of the normal since the spicy food. Why is the onset so late and what could be a cause and remedy? I am currently taking allergy medicine. Doctor: Hello, Spicy foods are known to release histamine and this chemical causes the exact symptoms you are complaining of. This is not an allergy but an intolerance. Eating spicy foods in moderation is recommended. You can take antihistamines like Cetirizine 10mg (max twice daily) for a few days and then stop.