Allergy Fact 13 - (Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome)

Even though peanuts and egg allergies are the first things which spring to mind when we talk about food allergy, fruits and vegetables are the top-food-causing allergies in adults.

It is known as pollen food syndrome (PFS) or oral allergy syndrome (OAS).

This is usually related to an allergy to pollen (usually birch). Though not always present, most people will also experience springtime hayfever. PFS is related to an allergy to pollen which is usually birch.

Plant foods such as apples contain similar proteins which are also found in pollens. When people with PFS consume such foods, an allergic reaction occurs caused by a cross-reaction. The symptoms are usually confined to the mouth and throat. Itching and local swelling are the usual reactions.

Foods in their raw form which can trigger PFS:

1. Fruits: Apple, pear, cherry, peach, plum, strawberry, kiwi
2. Vegetables: Carrot, celery, potato, tomato, beansprouts
3. Nuts: Hazelnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, walnuts

Apparently it is common for people with PFS to get itchy hands when handling raw fruits or vegetables (especially when peeling potatoes).

People with PFS are diagnosed based on:

1. Symptoms of hayfever (March - May).
2. Oral allergy reactions with fruits, vegetables, nuts or herbs.
3. Reactions to raw but not cooked fruits and vegetables (or reactions while peeling fruits and vegetables).
4. Reactions when biting, chewing OR swallowing. Or reactions less than five minutes after eating.
5. Symptoms of mild to moderate tingling, itching, soreness or angioedema (swelling) of the oropharynx (throat).

*Bear in mind that some may progress to anaphylaxis. It is advisable to carry Epi-Pens.

To read more about PFS, click on LINK.

Click HERE to read in detail about Oral Allergy Syndrome.

Click on LINK to read about PFS.

*picture taken from HERE