Reactions to Apple Allergy

Apple allergies are somewhat unique, and they can result in painful and possibly dangerous reactions. Understanding the symptoms and remedies will make coping with an apple allergy much easier.

Oral Allergy Syndrome

• Apples are one of the most common foods associated with oral allergy syndrome. Oral allergy syndrome presents as tingling, swelling, and itching of the lips, tongue and throat.

Birch Pollinosis

• Most people who have birch pollen allergies also become sensitive to apples.

Handling

• Usually even handling or touching apples can cause a localized reaction, such as a rash where juice may have touched the hand.

Severe Symptoms

• On rare occasions, a severe reaction to apples can cause vomiting, diarrhea, swelling of the throat, and anaphylactic shock.

Processing

• Most of the time, people who have an apple allergy are able to eat apples that have been processed, canned, or cooked, such as in apple pie or applesauce.

Treatment

• The best way to treat an apple allergy is to simply avoid raw apple. If you do have a reaction, an oral antihistamine should ease the symptoms. If you have a history of severe allergic reactions, you should always have an epinephrine shot available.