Itchy Throat after eating an apple, cherry or peach? Welcome to Oral Allergy Syndrome!

Itchy Throat after eating an apple, cherry or peach- Welcome to Oral Allergy Syndrome! (1)
Itchy Throat after eating an apple, cherry or peach- Welcome to Oral Allergy Syndrome! (1)

Its that time again! Lots of advertisements for fresh fruits and veggies, especially if you live in an area that has all four seasons. Personally, I suffer from this every year. Its always around spring where I have to be careful when I eat certain fruits.

So what exactly are oral allergies? Basically, its a pollen-food allergy. This is commonly seen in people who have allergies to pollen. The pollen is similar to the allergens found in fruits, vegetables and nuts. Foods that are plant based are the cause of this.

What are the symptoms? Itchy or tingling mouth, throat and lips all affecting the oral area. You may experience swelling a few minutes of seconds after eating said food. It is very uncomfortable but often goes away after a few minutes. (If it doesn’t you may need to see a doctor as it could be something more serious) 

Who get this? Mostly adults, although anyone could have OAS.

If you are allergic to birch tree, ragweed, or grass pollen you have a higher percentage of having OAS

Foods to look out for – apples, peaches, apricots, cherries, plums, pears, almonds, hazelnuts, carrots, celery, parsley, caraway, fennel, coriander, aniseed, soybeans, peanuts, melons, zucchini, cucumber, kiwi, bananas, melons, tomatoes, oranges, swiss chard.

Treatment – Avoid these foods if irritation is too much or make sure they are cooked and not in a raw state. 

Source – http://www.uptodate.com/contents/oral-allergy-syndrome-beyond-the-basics

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