From the Research
Individuals with oral allergy syndrome should not necessarily avoid all trigger foods completely, but should make decisions based on their symptom severity. For mild symptoms, they can try simple modifications like peeling fruits, cooking trigger foods (which denatures the allergenic proteins), or taking an antihistamine like cetirizine (10mg) or diphenhydramine (25mg) before eating the food 1. For those with more severe reactions, avoiding the specific trigger foods is recommended. Some people may only need to avoid certain foods during pollen seasons when their immune system is already sensitized. Oral allergy syndrome occurs because proteins in certain raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts are structurally similar to pollen proteins, causing cross-reactivity in allergic individuals. While symptoms typically include itching and mild swelling limited to the mouth and throat, a small percentage of people may experience more severe reactions requiring immediate medical attention.
Key considerations for managing oral allergy syndrome include:
- Symptom severity: mild symptoms may be managed with modifications or antihistamines, while severe reactions require avoidance of trigger foods
- Pollen seasons: individuals may need to avoid certain foods during pollen seasons when their immune system is already sensitized
- Protein structure: proteins in raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts are structurally similar to pollen proteins, causing cross-reactivity in allergic individuals
- Treatment options: oral immunotherapy has emerged as a form of active and potentially disease-modifying treatment for common food allergies, with high efficacy and improved quality of life 1
It is essential to note that oral allergy syndrome can be a precursor to more severe food-induced anaphylaxis, and thus, detection and recognition of OAS are crucial 2. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, significant swelling, or systemic symptoms should seek emergency care and consider carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. The use of immune modulators alongside oral immunotherapy has been suggested, with the aim to improve efficacy and safety, and to facilitate the overall process 1.