Luckily, most allergic reactions to fruits and vegetables occur in the mouth rather than systemic allergic reactions like itching, labored breathing, dizziness or unconsciousness. Usually allergies to fruits and vegetables are characterized by itching and swelling in the mouth, which is referred to as oral allergy syndrome. Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and intestinal cramps may occur once a fruit or vegetable is ingested and a histamine enters the digestive tract. Frequently, those who suffer from allergies to fruits and vegetables also have hay fever, asthma, or eczema.

Allergic disease specialists believe that allergies to fruits and vegetables are increasing quickly. It is children who seem to be the victims of this problem at the greatest rates. Studies indicate that if children do not have the opportunity to develop tolerance to potential allergens through exposure to them, they are more likely to experience allergic symptoms later in life. How severe is the condition? It is believed that allergies to fruits and vegetables could ultimately become more common than peanut allergies.

Many fruits and vegetables cause oral allergy symptoms when consumed raw; many cause no problems once they are cooked or processed. For instance, eating applesauce may not cause a problem for you, but you may experience symptoms when eating a fresh apple. The proteins that cause the allergic reaction may be broken down when the fruit or vegetable is cooked or processed. In several instances, the allergic response can be offset by peeling the fruit or vegetable.

Are there any effective allergy treatments? In several instances, allergic immunotherapy, which consists of administering a series of injections with gradually higher levels of the allergen, can be utilized to create a tolerance and subdue the allergic response. While this is not a cure in the true sense of the word, after undergoing immunotherapy, people can tolerate fruits and vegetables that had previously caused allergic reactions.

The optimal way to treat allergies to fruits and vegetables could be to maintain a food diary so you can better see which ones bring about symptoms. Once you have identified the culprits, you should be able to avoid them if there are not too many of them. It may be wise to make an appointment with an allergy specialist if you have an allergic reaction to most fruits and vegetables.