Allergies Related to Strawberries

Allergies Related to Strawberries
Photo Credit strawberries image by Joelyn Pullano from Fotolia.com

Strawberry allergies are common. According to 2007 information on StrawberryWeb.com, there are various types of allergies related to red strawberries, but none to white strawberries. As such, breeders at Lund University in Sweden are working to make the white varieties of strawberries as tasty and colorful as the red ones.

Oral Allergy Syndrome

Strawberry allergies are often characterized by a variety of symptoms in the mouth area, known as OAS, or oral allergy syndrome. Symptoms of oral allergy syndrome begin in the mouth, but may not be isolated or limited to the mouth area. There can be tingling, itching, and swelling in the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and palate. Those with hay fever may be more prone to oral allergy syndrome.

Skin Allergies

Skin allergies related to strawberries can manifest around the eyes and nose. The skin near the eyes can becomes swollen and red, and the eyes can become itchy and watery. The nose can become runny and itchy, as well. Strawberry allergy symptoms might be accompanied by sneezing. Skin allergies may also appear on the forearms, torso or neck. According to StrawberriesWeb.com, skin allergies can also progress to more severe reactions, such as asthma and rhinitis, as well as systemic and digestive symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cramps.

Anaphylaxis

Allergic reactions to strawberries can include anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that interferes with breathing. It can cause a feeling that the throat is closing, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, fainting, vomiting and low blood pressure. Anaphylaxis symptoms usually occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Sometimes, however, anaphylaxis can occur a half-hour or longer after exposure. Anaphylaxis requires emergency medical care.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Sep 7, 2010

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