Oral Allergy Syndrome

Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is characterized by allergic reactions that happen in the mouth due to pollen allergies and the cross-reaction of hay fever pollen to ingested pollinated fruits and vegetables.

Significance

• The body responds to inhaled and ingested allergens with histamine releases that cause inflammation throughout the body, with oral allergy syndrome indicated by localized reactions in the mouth that appear within five minutes of exposure to a trigger.

Effects

• Oral allergy syndrome typically causes mild symptoms of swelling, tingling, burning and itching of the gums, lips, tongue, mouth and throat due to ingestion of a food trigger or inhalation of pollen particles.

Considerations

• Adults with asthma and seasonal allergies to tree pollens are typically more prone to developing oral allergy syndrome, with pronounced symptoms afflicting individuals throughout spring and fall.

Identification

• Fresh fruit and vegetables with cross-reactive qualities to an individual's pollen allergy appear to cause the majority of symptoms. For example, ragweed allergies may produce reactions to bananas and melons, whereas birch pollen sensitivity can promote oral allergy symptoms when eating apples and pears.

Warning

• Rarely, oral allergy syndrome can develop into anaphylaxis symptoms of chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and swelling, requiring an immediate epinephrine (EpiPen) injection and medical attention.

Prevention/Solution

• Oral allergy syndrome can be treated by eliminating foods that cause reactions. Oral antihistamines can be taken to reduce mild irritation, while allergy shots containing small amounts of the reactive pollen may result in long-term relief.