Treatment for exposure to black pepper depends on the nature of your reaction, whether it’s an antibody-triggered allergy or an MCAS reaction. The goal of treatment is to lessen your symptoms and discomfort while minimizing chances of reactions later on.
For antibody-triggered allergies, antihistamines may be effective for minor reactions. Severe reactions may require using an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and an emergency room visit, Cleveland Clinic says.
If you have MCAS, treatment is more complex. It will likely involve daily medication, including antihistamines, Klimas writes. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are often used during reactions, as are epinephrine auto-injectors.
Several MCAS treatments, such as cromolyn (Gastrocrom), aim to prevent mast cells from ever releasing the chemicals that cause reactions.
Because MCAS presents differently in everyone, there’s no standard treatment regimen. It may take some time to figure out a combination that helps stabilize your immune system.
Prevention is your best bet. Discuss your trigger with your server in restaurants and the hosts of events, and check ingredient lists diligently in the grocery store.
