Fruits are among the healthiest food groups, providing important vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and of course, flavor. For anyone with a fruit allergy, finding an effective oral allergy syndrome treatment may be the only way to comfortably eat these foods. Atlanta residents who experience allergic reactions after eating certain fruits can work with their allergist to limit the impact of this condition.
What Are the Best Treatments for a Fruit Allergy?
Most fruit allergies are actually a result of cross-reactivity. Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is also called pollen-food allergy, due to the similarities in the proteins found in pollen and certain foods. Even though grass, tree and other pollens may not appear to be comparable to various fruits, they are structurally similar, meaning that eating foods can trigger seasonal allergy symptoms.
1. Avoidance Techniques
OAS symptoms are usually milder than most other allergies, but you should still seek the help of an allergist if you get an itching or swelling sensation. Your allergist can perform allergy testing to determine exactly which fruits are causing the issue. By following this process you can avoid only those fruits or substances that may lead to a reaction, rather than unnecessarily removing related foods.
2. Dietary Management
Fruits share protein structures that are similar to pollen only when they’re fresh. This means that cooking the fruit will alter the protein enough to prevent an allergic reaction. And while fresh fruit might be your preferred choice, cooking techniques such as poaching, stewing, making sauces and other cooking techniques can provide an alternative. In addition, removing the skins of some fruits can also reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.
3. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a common medication for hay fever, but they can also have positive benefits for fruit allergies caused by OAS. Histamine is released during an allergic reaction – it’s this substance that causes allergy symptoms. When a person comes into contact with an allergen, antihistamines work by blocking the effects of the histamine. However, because OAS symptoms can pass fairly quickly, the worst symptoms may have cleared before the antihistamines start working.
4. Allergy Desensitization
Allergy desensitization is a longer-term option for fruit allergies and pollen itself. The process involves building tolerance through gradual interactions with allergens. For OAS, patients will usually receive allergy shots that desensitize the immune system to the particular type of pollen causing issues.
Similarly, oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) involves consuming foods until physical desensitization has been achieved. While OIT can be used for a specific food allergy, OAS patients can benefit from tackling the root cause – pollen.
Get Effective Treatment for a Fruit Allergy
If you experience an allergic reaction after eating fruit, you may have oral allergy syndrome. For a full diagnosis and treatment plan, contact Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center today. Our allergy centers are located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. For assistance, call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
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