According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the degree and nature of allergic reactions to kiwifruit depends on how the fruit is prepared. While kiwifruit skin can be digested, for example, some people who experience no other problems from eating kiwi may get oral irritation from eating fruit with the skin on.
Function
In allergic reactions to kiwis, patients' immune systems mistakenly produce antibodies to a harmless protein in the fruit. The reaction between the antibodies and proteins causes histamines to enter the bloodstream. While histamines battle the "invading" allergens, they cause side effects in the respiratory and digestive systems, the Cleveland Clinic reports.
Features
Patients with mild kiwi allergies might only have a few health symptoms, such as mouth tingling, itching or swelling, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. More severe allergic reactions often produce hives on the skin, a runny or stuffy nose, and difficulty breathing. The digestive health symptoms develop more slowly. Within an hour or two of eating kiwifruit, patients may experience nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea. Extreme allergic responses, called anaphylaxis, dangerously decrease blood pressure and blood oxygen levels. These rare effects of kiwi allergies include abnormal pulse, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Warning
Even if patients have never experienced problems with eating kiwifruit, they should get medical advice after an initial allergic reaction. Signs of anaphylaxis warrant an immediate call to 9-1-1 paramedic services, the Mayo Clinic relates. In some cases, the rapid progression of cardiovascular and respiratory health symptoms can lead to death without emergency treatment.
Misconceptions
While kiwi allergies can be managed with medication, they cannot be cured. Kids who get allergies may grow out of them, but adult onset usually indicates lifelong conditions. As the Mayo Clinic reports, food allergies do not respond well to immunotherapy, the type of allergy shots that reduce reactions to other allergens, such as pollen.
Prevention
Because extreme symptoms of kiwi allergies can be life-threatening, and because most allergies can't be cured, patients must prevent contact with the problem fruit. The UM Medical Center considers avoidance the only sure treatment. Physicians can help individuals make diet plans that also exclude fruits with similar proteins that might have cross-reactive properties.
