Is This a Food Allergy, or Spring Allergy Symptoms?
Have you experienced the symptoms of a spring allergy after eating certain fruits and vegetables? If you have, there’s a good chance you are suffering from oral allergy syndrome (OAS). This cross-reactive condition affects many Atlanta residents with a pollen allergy, and can lead to much discomfort. But what exactly is OAS?
What Is Oral Allergy Syndrome?
Raw fruit, vegetables and nuts contain proteins that are similar to pollen. The cross-reacting allergens found in these substances can confuse the body, and an allergic reaction is triggered. Just as with pollen, fruits, vegetables and nuts aren’t a threat to your immune system, but the perceived threat triggers the release of antibodies. These antibodies release chemicals that lead to responses that match up with the common spring allergy symptoms.
What Are the Common Oral Allergy Symptoms Triggered By Pollen?
Anyone hoping for an allergy-free spring should learn to recognize the symptoms of oral allergy syndrome, and when they occur. Symptoms are experienced in the mouth and throat and are unlikely to be located elsewhere. OAS is also unlikely to lead to severe allergic reactions. Here are the main symptoms of OAS.
- Itching around the mouth
- Sore throat
- Lip, throat or tongue swelling
What Are the Main Triggers of OAS?
An allergic reaction is usually caused by certain fruits and vegetables, with some nuts also containing similar proteins to pollen. Here are some of the main foods likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
- Apple
- Banana
- Celery
- Peach
- Plum
- Pear
- Oranges
- Melons
- Tomato
- Cucumber
- Zucchini
- Hazelnut
- Almond
When they are raw, the protein structures present in these foods resemble pollen. However, if they are cooked, the proteins are altered and unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
Getting a Diagnosis for OAS
If you are concerned about an allergy, you should make an appointment with an allergist. Your allergist will discuss your experiences and any relevant history before completing allergy tests. In most cases, you will have a skin prick test or blood test to identify whether your body reacts to small levels of an allergen. These tests can accurately identify the allergens causing problems, and lead to an effective treatment plan.
Effective Treatment for OAS
If a food allergy triggers spring allergy symptoms, the first step is to avoid eating the food. Food allergies can be severe and unpredictable, making avoidance important until you have spoken to a food allergy doctor. Antihistamines may reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction, providing comfort from itching or swelling.
Additionally, your allergist may recommend immunotherapy as a long-term solution. Immunotherapy can increase tolerance levels to pollen, while oral immunotherapy treatment is used to desensitize the body to allergens in food.
Start Treating Oral Allergy Syndrome Today
Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center provides treatment for oral allergy syndrome and other allergies from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. To make an appointment for a consultation, call (678) 668-4688 or request help online.
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