Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)
In OAS, also referred to as Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome, fresh fruits and vegetables elicit an allergic reaction when consumed due to their similarity to certain pollens that cause allergies. This is referred to as cross-reactivity. Cooked fruits and vegetables do not cause an OAS reaction. Symptoms are typically more severe during the season that the offending pollen occurs.
Common Cross Reactivities
Common Cross Reactivities
If you are allergic to:Grasses
Birch Tree Pollen Ragweed Pollen Mugwort Pollen | You may have a reaction to:Tomatoes, potatoes, peaches, oranges
apples, potaotes, pears, carrots, celery, certain nuts, cherries, plums, parsnip, apricots, kiwi fruit, almonds, avocados, fig, nectarines, parsley, plums, peppers, prunes, soy, strawberries, wheat Tomatoes, bananas, melons, cucumbers, zucchini, artichoke, hibiscus, chamomile Apples, celery, carrots, certain nuts, certain spices (like fennel, corriander, caraway seeds, and parsley), kiwi fruit, peppers, sunflower |
Symptoms of OAS
Tingling, itching, burning, swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat (any where the offending fruit or veggie touched)
Symptoms are typically short-lived and not serious; however, there have been cases (rare) where individuals suffered anaphylaxis, so see your doctor if you suspect that you have OAS.
Symptoms are typically short-lived and not serious; however, there have been cases (rare) where individuals suffered anaphylaxis, so see your doctor if you suspect that you have OAS.
