Nut trees and kiwi trees both produce foods that are common allergens for individuals. While the trees themselves may cause basic outdoor allergic reactions, such as hay fever or sneezing, the major allergens are found within the nuts and kiwis of these trees. If you are allergic to kiwis, it is possible that you are also allergic to chestnuts or hazelnuts.
Tree Nut Allergy
Tree nut allergies are among the most common types of allergies in adolescents and adults. Trees that bear nuts you may be allergic to include cashews, almonds, pecans and walnuts. While you may be allergic to peanuts, this is a separate allergy because peanuts are legumes. During an allergy attack, your body identifies the allergen as something that must be fought off through the production of antibodies. These antibodies create the allergic reaction you feel after consuming a nut from a tree.
Kiwi Allergy
Raw kiwi is known to contain an enzyme called actinidin. Certain individuals will have an allergic reaction to this enzyme if it is consumed or contacted in high quantities. This same enzyme is also found in latex, papayas and pineapples, making it likely that you will also be allergic to those as well. Kiwi also contains calcium oxalate, another chemical that can cause an allergic reaction.
Symptoms
With respect to kiwi fruit trees, most allergic reactions will start with itchy skin and soreness around your mouth. A more extreme symptom of a allergic reaction to kiwi could result in vomiting, heartburn and abdominal pain. The symptoms for nut allergies can range from developing a runny nose to having difficulty breathing, depending on the severity of your allergic reaction. Have a doctor perform an allergy test on you to see how severely allergic you are to these items.
Cross Reactions
A cross reaction occurs when you have the same allergic reactions to different items or foods. While each allergen has a variety of potential cross reactions, individuals do not always react the same way to cross reaction products. Individuals suffering from tree nut allergies usually have a 30 to 60 percent chance of being allergic to peanuts and shellfish. With respect to kiwi fruit trees, typical cross reactions include latex, papayas and pineapples as well as chestnuts and hazelnuts.
