Although an allergy to grapefruit and pineapple is uncommon, it is possible. If you develop allergy symptoms after eating grapefruit or pineapple, you need to talk with your doctor for a diagnosis. You may be allergic to other citrus fruits that can be identified through a serious of tests to identify the allergens. Food intolerances are commonly confused with food allergies because the gastric symptoms are similar between the two conditions. our doctor can help you distinguish between the two.
Cause
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that food allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to the proteins found in certain foods. If you're allergic to grapefruit or pineapple, your immune system mistakes the proteins in these foods as a harmful substance and begins to defend the body. Immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies, are created to fight off the proteins found in the fruits. The creation of these antibodies causes mast cells in the body to produce histamine, a chemical that produces inflammation and irritation in soft tissue throughout the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergy to grapefruit or pineapple will develop within a few minutes or up to an hour after consuming the fruit. You may experience diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, swelling, nausea, nasal congestion, itching, lightheadedness, difficulty swallowing, diarrhea, atopic dermatitis hives and shortness of breath, according to MedlinePlus. In rare cases, a food allergy may lead to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Consideration
Some people may not experience allergy symptoms after ingesting the fruits, but may suffer from contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction that occurs after touching grapefruit or pineapple, according to the Merck Manuals. Almost instantly, your skin will become inflamed, itchy and swollen after coming into direct contact with the either of the fruits if you have an allergy to them. Treat the skin rash by washing the affected areas with soap and water, apply a cold compress and use hydrocortisone creams to reduce swelling and the itch.
Identification
Because grapefruit and pineapple are not common foods related to an allergy, you should talk with an allergist for an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend allergy tests using proteins from the fruits to see if your body creates IgE antibodies when they're introduced. Two of the most common allergy tests include skin prick tests and blood tests, according to the Mayo Clinic. Skin tests are administered by injecting a small amount of the allergen under the skin to observe if the skin becomes inflamed.
Member Comments