Have you ever experienced an itchy mouth or throat after eating an apple or carrot? If so, you might have oral allergy syndrome (OAS) without realizing it. OAS can be triggered by a wide range of fruits, vegetables and nuts, and has significant implications for a person’s health and well-being. But with various allergy management and treatment approaches, Atlanta patients don’t need to suffer unnecessarily.
An Overview of Oral Allergy Syndrome
OAS, or pollen-food allergy syndrome, is an allergic reaction to specific proteins in fruits, vegetables and nuts. The cause of the syndrome is cross-reacting allergens seen in both pollen and many fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Mistakenly believing the body is under threat, the immune system targets these proteins to protect it. As a result, a person experiences an allergic reaction. Foods most likely to trigger this response include apples, bananas, pears, strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, hazelnuts and walnuts.
Common Signs of Oral Allergy Syndrome
The symptoms of OAS are usually mild, but can be disconcerting. Look out for signs such as itching or burning sensations in the mouth, throat or ears; swelling of the lips, tongue or throat; and even anaphylaxis (in rare cases). OAS generally causes milder reactions when compared with other food allergies, as stomach acids and enzymes quickly break down the proteins involved. In addition, there are effective ways to treat oral allergy syndrome that offer quick relief.
Why Cooking Food Helps With Oral Allergy Syndrome
One approach to preventing allergic reactions from OAS is to cook the foods. The proteins causing OAS are often sensitive to heat, and are altered through the cooking process. Cooking effectively changes the structure of the proteins, making them unrecognizable to the immune system. However, this is not a universal solution, as a minority of people may still experience symptoms despite cooking the food.
When Is Oral Allergy Syndrome Most Prevalent?
OAS is particularly common among individuals who are allergic to birch, grass or ragweed pollen. When these pollens are active, many people experience heightened sensitivity due to repeated pollen exposure. Essentially, this means that an overstimulated immune system during pollen season is less tolerant, making the mouth and throat more susceptible to the itching and swelling typically associated with OAS.
Diagnosis and Management of Oral Allergy Syndrome
If you suspect you have OAS, consulting an allergist is an important step. After your allergist considers your medical history, skin prick tests and oral food challenges can help confirm the diagnosis. The first step in managing OAS is to avoid the raw foods that trigger symptoms. For a more long-term solution, immunotherapy treatment desensitizes the immune system for noticeable health improvements.
Access Effective Oral Allergy Syndrome Treatment in Atlanta
For diagnosis and treatment of oral allergy syndrome, contact Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center today. We provide testing and guidance for allergies of all types at our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
