Cold sores are the result of an infection of herpes simplex virus type 1 and are not caused by eating certain foods like strawberries. Cold sores are commonly confused with allergy-related skin rashes that may appear as cold sores. Allergic contact dermatitis, hives and eczema can call form on the inside of your mouth or your lips after eating strawberries. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center identifies strawberries as a common food allergen. Make an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist to determine the cause and type of sores in your mouth.
What Are Cold Sores?
Cold sores, which are also called fever blisters, are characterized by small and painful blisters that form on your skin or in or around your mouth. The blisters are raised from the skin and are filled with fluid that can cause tingling or pain. The blisters are the result of particular strains of the herpes virus. Cold sores are contagious and are transmitted from person to person. Most cold sores subside without any treatment, according to Mayo Clinic. In severe cases, prescription lotions may be needed to stop the cold sores from developing. Otherwise, over-the-counter pain relievers and medications marketed for cold sore relief can help reduce pain.
Strawberry Blisters
Blisters that develop from eating strawberries are the result of an allergic reaction. When you eat a food that triggers an allergic reaction, chemicals are released in your body that attempt to fight off the proteins in the strawberry. MedlinePlus explains that instead of your immune system recognizing the proteins in the strawberry as safe for consumption, your immune system malfunctions and attacks the proteins as if they are harmful to your body. This causes the production of immunoglobulin E antibodies and histamine. Theses chemicals cause inflammation, irritation and swelling in the skin and other soft tissue.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is the most common allergic skin condition caused by eating strawberries. This condition occurs when your skin comes into direct contact with a food or substance to which you have an allergy. Allergic contact dermatitis is localized to the areas of skin that have been exposed to the strawberry. The rash causes blisters to develop that may or may not fill with liquid. It is typically itchy and is treated by washing the affected area.
Other Rashes
Hives and eczema may also develop as a result of a food allergy. Hives can develop anywhere on the body and look like clusters of welts. They are typically harmless unless they develop in your throat. Eczema can cause fluid-filled blisters to appear on your body that can weep, crust over and cause dry skin.
Consideration
Some studies performed by the University of Wisconsin in 2007 determined that 1,000 mg of vitamin C taken five times daily may help reduce the duration of cold sores. While strawberries contain vitamin C, it is recommended to talk with your doctor about the use of vitamin C supplements to treat cold sores. Because there is no way to measure the exact amount of vitamin C in each strawberry you consume, supplements are recommended.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cold Sores
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Food Allergy
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Allergic Skin Conditions
- MedlinePlus: Allergic Reaction
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel, M.D.; 2007
