Oral Allergy Syndrome

Hypersensitivity type may be- Type I Allergy
Immune reactions may be from- IgE
Reactions may occur in- Minutes

Pollen allergies may also lead to Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) also known as Pollen Fruit Syndrome or Pollen Food Syndrome.

Oral Allergy Syndrome may occur in people that consume foods that contain pollen proteins found in pollens such as, but not limited to; Birch pollen, Alder pollen, Grass pollen, Ragweed pollen or Mugwort pollen.

These pollen proteins are found in many common fruits and vegetables, as well as some spices, tree nuts and legumes (scroll below to see some common places it can come from), all leading to an allergic reaction.

While it may be considered a mild form of a food allergy, Oral Allergy Syndrome in some cases, especially with cross-reaction, can lead to severe symptoms.

SYMPTOMS

Some of the symptoms may be characterised by:

 

• Itching
• Mouth tingling
• Swollen or numb lips
• Scratchy throat
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Allergic Rhinitis
• Asthma aggravation 
• Anaphylaxis

The validity and severity of these symptoms are dependent on the individual and the level of exposure, as determined by a qualified health care provider.

TREATMENT

If you experience or are in the presence of someone that encounters an immediate serious reaction (this may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightening, swelling, collapse, etc), call or have someone call triple zero (000) immediately.

In the case of a minor allergic reaction, people may use Antihistamines along with other medications based on their individual symptoms and prescribed treatments.

For severe allergic reactions Epinephrine may be used, followed by seeking emergency medical attention. However, some people may not be able to use Epinephrine due to particular reasons.

It’s important for anyone with an Allergy, to discuss treatments with a qualified health care provider to understand how to manage individual allergies and also to set up an Action Plan in the case of a reaction.

Always present your Allergy Card, Medical Alert Bracelet or Necklace to ensure health care providers, family members, friends, colleagues and others are aware of your Allergy or Allergies.

TESTING

A skin prick test or oral food challenges may be used to test for Oral Allergy Syndrome. This may be tested in conjunction with testing for Pollen Allergies.

LABELLING

Some labels or terms you may come across on Oral Allergy Syndrome friendly products:

"Hypoallergenic" "Pollen Free"