G6PD Deficiency Symptom Triggers

Children who have G6pD Deficiency show symptoms not until their red blood cells get exposed to what you call “triggers”.

These triggers could be:

• Illnesses caused by bacterial or viral infections
• Intake of painkillers and fever-reducers, such as acetaminophen, paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Intake of antibiotics, particularly those with “sulf” in the names
• Intake of antimalarial drugs, particularly those with “quine” in the names

Fava Beans

Although some kids are able to take small amounts of these medications, some cannot tolerate them at all. Your doctor will be able to determine and tell you which medications could pose serious health problems to your child. Other triggers include fava beans, soy beans and soy products, a chemical called naphthalene, which is found in moth balls, and many others.

Menthol and any food containing it are also a no-no. Any product that has menthol, even for flavoring purpose only, should be avoided. Toothpaste, mint candy, mouth wash, breath mints are forbidden. However, mint oil that is derived from natural mint leaves is okay. Artificial food coloring should also be avoided, as well as artificial ascorbic acid, vitamin K, some Chinese herbs, bitter gourd, and tonic water. Henna, which is used in numerous ways including hair treatments and temporary tattoos, is also a symtom trigger.

Take care not to introduce any of these to your g6pd deficient child or he/she will surely suffer from the condition’s unwelcome symptoms. It is possible to give your child a normal life even if he/she has g6pd deficiency. By simply avoiding these foods, vitamins, or chemicals, you will greatly decrease the risk of your child experiencing g6pd deficiency symptoms.