What Are the Causes of Fruit Allergies?

What may be a delicious treat for some can be a nightmare for others. Some people have fruit allergies that can cause symptoms that range from a slight discomfort to hospitalization. Just as each person may have a specific set of fruits that they cannot eat, so too are the reasons for these allergies diverse and often random.

Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

• Many people who are allergic to fruit can suffer a mild-reaction known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS). OAS is something that is not normally tested for and is not a great concern if the offending fruit are avoided in large quantity. The symptoms of OAS include a tingling, swelling, and itching in and around the mouth.

Latex

• Although not a common problem, those that have an allergy to latex may not be able to eat fruit because some come from places where handlers wear latex gloves Always rinse fruit off thoroughly before eating it.

Rhinitis

• According to an article in U.S. News and Health Report, nearly 70 percent of people who suffer from rhinitis (hay fever) will also have OAS. Due to the similar structure of the pollen that produces hay fever and that which can be found on fruit, many will suffer a reaction to both.

Asthma

• Information portal Beyond Allergy says that asthmatics may have an allergic reaction to some fruit; however, it is dependent solely on each individual and there is not a specific fruit that triggers it.