What is oral allergy syndrome?
Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS), also known as pollen-food syndrome, is a condition where individuals experience allergic reactions to certain raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
It typically occurs in people who have allergies to pollen, especially from trees, grasses, and weeds. When these individuals consume certain foods that contain proteins similar to those found in pollen, their immune system may react, causing symptoms such as itching, tingling, or swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat.
The role of cross-reactivity
The development of OAS is linked to cross-reactivity between pollen allergens and proteins in certain foods. This cross-reactivity occurs because the proteins in some fruits, vegetables, and nuts resemble the proteins found in specific pollens. For example, individuals allergic to birch pollen may experience symptoms when consuming apples, carrots, or almonds, which contain proteins similar to those found in birch pollen.
Common oral allergy chart
To help individuals with OAS identify potential trigger foods, allergists and immunologists have developed oral allergy charts. These charts categorize fruits, vegetables, and nuts based on their likelihood to cause allergic reactions in individuals with specific pollen allergies. Here’s a breakdown of some common cross-reactive foods according to the pollen they’re associated with:
Birch pollen allergy
Apples
Pears
Cherries
Peaches
Plums
Apricots
Carrots
Celery
Almonds
Hazelnuts
Ragweed pollen allergy
Bananas
Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew)
Zucchini
Cucumber
Sunflower seeds
Grass pollen allergy
Tomatoes
Potatoes
Peppers (bell peppers, chili peppers)
Kiwi
Peaches
Celery
Managing oral allergy syndrome
While avoiding trigger foods is the primary way to manage OAS, there are other strategies individuals can employ:
Cooking or Heating: Many people with OAS find that they can tolerate trigger foods when they are cooked or processed. Heating can alter the protein structure, reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
Choosing Alternative Foods: Individuals with OAS can experiment with alternative fruits, vegetables, and nuts that do not trigger allergic reactions. For example, those allergic to apples might find that they can tolerate oranges or grapes.
Consulting with an Allergist: Allergists can perform tests to confirm OAS and provide personalized advice on managing symptoms. They may also recommend allergy medications or immunotherapy for individuals with severe symptoms.
Being Mindful of Seasonal Changes: Symptoms of OAS may worsen during pollen seasons when individuals are already experiencing allergic reactions. Being aware of seasonal changes and adjusting diet accordingly can help minimize symptoms.
Oral Allergy Syndrome is a common condition among individuals with pollen allergies, characterized by allergic reactions to certain raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Understanding cross-reactivity between pollen and food proteins is crucial for managing symptoms. By referring to an oral allergy chart and implementing strategies to avoid trigger foods, individuals with OAS can effectively reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions, improving their overall quality of life. If you suspect you have OAS, consult with an allergist for proper diagnosis and personalized management plan.
