If you’ve ever stopped enjoying a delicious meal or snack because of a tingling, burning or itching sensation in your mouth, throat or around your lips, you may have guessed or learned that you have oral allergy syndrome (OAS). And according to studies, up to 10% of the world’s population joins you in dealing with this form of food allergy. With Atlanta already achieving high-pollen days in early February, it’s a good idea for those who are experiencing the discomfort of OAS to see a local food allergist.
The Top 3 Reasons to See a Food Allergist for OAS
Many raw fruits and vegetables, nuts and spices can trigger oral allergy syndrome reactions due to the pollen found on their surfaces. Sometimes a reaction will even occur when these foods are cooked. And while it may be tempting to simply take an over-the-counter medicine and try to avoid these food triggers, the best strategy is to seek the help of a professional allergist.
When You Want a Proper Oral Allergy Syndrome Diagnosis
With all the information available online, some people naturally attempt to self-diagnose. However, to truly find out whether or not your allergic reactions are pollen-food related, you’ll want to get a proper assessment and a diagnosis that confirms or rules out oral allergy syndrome. If you do have pollen allergies, chances are high that you’ll also have OAS, as Stanford Healthcare found that up to 70% of people do. These reactions can flare up any time of year, but are often worse during the pollen season that affects you. To find out which pollens and foods are causing your distress, seeing a food allergist is the best course of action.
When You Want to Reduce Food Allergy Anxiety
Adults with food allergies like OAS can experience food-related stress and anxiety. And when a child has a food allergy, many parents are especially vigilant. The Allergy & Asthma Network reports that 92% of parents are fearful for their food-allergic child’s safety and well-being. Even when the symptoms are milder, the concern remains. Today, with many medical advances in immunology and allergy treatment available, a trip to a specialist can begin to alleviate your worries.
An initial visit to an allergy treatment clinic won’t be stressful when you know what to expect. To begin the process of helping you manage your oral allergy syndrome symptoms (and ultimately your stress), your doctor will first get to know you and your medical history.
When You Are Ready for a Personalized OAS Treatment Plan
Every patient is different and deserves specialized care, and avoidance isn’t the only option. Because of the cross-reactivity of pollen and food allergens, allergy testing is extremely important for OAS patients. In fact, for you or your child, allergy testing is the first step in developing a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is an available treatment that may allow you to enjoy foods you’re currently allergic to.
At Food Allergies Atlanta we’ve helped many families overcome and manage their food challenges. We want to help you minimize and (in some cases) even eliminate your reaction to allergens.
Get Help for Oral Allergy Syndrome With Metro Atlanta’s Best Food Allergist
The board certified doctors at Food Allergies Atlanta are available at multiple locations in Metro Atlanta and throughout Georgia to help oral allergy syndrome patients. Request an appointment at one of our clinics, or call us at 678-668-4688.
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