Seasonal allergies, or hay fever, are commonly triggered by airborne allergens, such as mold, dust and pollens. If you've been diagnosed with hay fever, certain foods may intensify or trigger your seasonal allergy symptoms. This condition is referred to as oral allergy syndrome and is due to cross-reactivity between certain pollens and food proteins, primarily found in fruits, vegetables and nuts, according to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Oral allergy syndrome mostly affects the mouth with tingling and minor skin irritation. Very rarely oral allergy syndrome will cause a generalized allergic reaction, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network.
Fruits
The most common fruits that can affect your seasonal allergies are apples, peaches, pears, bananas, melons and kiwis, according to MayoClinic.com. After you eat these fruits your immune system mistakes the proteins for tree pollen and begins to attack the invaders. This action produces histamine in the localized area of the mouth. Histamine is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that helps to ward off infection and disease. Too much histamine causes inflammation and irritation. You may develop hives, eczema, general inflammation or itching shortly after eating these fruits.
Vegetables
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia states that common vegetables that cause oral allergy syndrome include carrots, celery, raw potatoes, tomatoes and celery. The most common pollens that these vegetables imitate are mugwort, grass, birch and ragweed. If you experience common oral allergy symptoms after eating these vegetables, rinse your face with water to remove any residue of the allergen. Drink plenty of water and call your doctor. Although unlikely, oral allergy syndrome could trigger a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylactic shock, according to MayoClinic.com. Anaphylactic shock could lead to death if not treated promptly. Common symptoms of anaphylactic shock include the inability to breath, wheezing, lightheadedness, a faint pulse and a drop in blood pressure.
Nuts and Spices
Hazelnuts and peanuts are the most common nuts associated with oral allergy syndrome. Peanuts are not technically a nut. They are classified as a legume, indicating that you may have an allergy towards other legumes, such as lentils and other beans. Talk with an allergist to determine which foods your body is allergic to. Spices that can intensify your seasonal allergies include parsley, anise seeds, caraway seeds, fennel seeds and coriander, according to MayoClinic.com. The best way to prevent oral allergy syndrome is to talk with your doctor about an allergy modification diet.
