Citrus Allergy
Fruits such as orange, lemon, grapefruit and lime, which are among the citrus fruits; They are foods rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help fight viral infections and seasonal diseases. Orange, lemon, grapefruit increase immunity to prevent the attack of viruses and bacteria. Additionally, these fruits have high water content, which helps hydrate the body. These foods, which have many health benefits, can help you lose weight. However, some people may be allergic to citrus fruits. Often people with pollen allergy suffer from citrus allergy. In general, citrus allergy occurs as a result of cross reaction. Citrus allergies also have a common ingredient found in apples. When these people touch, smell or taste anything containing citrus fruits, their bodies react to this situation.
What is Cross Reaction?
Most citrus allergies are caused by cross-reactive pollen allergies. The reason for this situation is; Citrus fruits and pollen have a common protein. When someone with pollen allergy consumes orange, lemon or grapefruit, the body perceives it as pollen and reacts to this situation. People with pollen and grass allergies may also be sensitive to citrus fruits.
Citrus Allergy Symptoms
Citrus allergy symptoms generally appear shortly after contact with or eating these fruits. Symptoms are usually regional. So, when you touch the fruit you are allergic to, symptoms may occur where you touch it.
Oral allergy syndrome symptoms of citrus allergy include:
- Intense tingling and itching in the lips, tongue and throat,
- Redness and slight swelling on the lips and tongue.
People with oral allergy syndrome who react to citrus fruits react to the raw form of the fruit. These people can eat the fruit when it is cooked. Oral allergy syndrome can also occur later in your life. People who are allergic to citrus peels may experience symptoms of contact dermatitis if they come into contact with citrus peels. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your skin releases inflammatory chemicals after coming into contact with an allergen.
Symptoms include:
- skin redness,
- burning skin,
- Itching,
- Dry,
- flaky,
- flaking skin,
- Swelling,
- Bubbles.
In rare cases, citrus allergy can cause a systemic allergic reaction, also called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Hives,
- flushed skin,
- Swelling in the mouth and throat,
- which can make breathing difficult Asthma,
- Nausea,
- vomiting or diarrhea,
- Drop in blood pressure.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Citrus Allergy
If you have experienced one or more of the symptoms of citrus allergy, you need to see an allergist to clarify the situation. Your allergist may perform a series of tests, taking into account your medical history and symptoms. If you have a pollen allergy, your allergist may perform a skin prick test to diagnose citrus allergy. In this test, a very small amount of the suspected allergen is placed under the skin and observed for approximately 20 minutes. If a condition such as redness and swelling occurs in the area where the test is applied, it means that you have an allergy. Your allergist may also perform a food challenge test. In this test, your allergist will ask you to eat the suspect food. Your allergist, who instantly observes your reaction to the food, will make a clear diagnosis. This test must be performed under the supervision of an allergist and in a clinic with medical equipment. In some cases, your allergist may also ask you to do an elimination diet. In this diet, foods that may cause an allergic reaction are removed from your diet and your symptoms are monitored. Then, suspicious foods are gradually added to your food list and your condition is monitored. It will be very useful to keep a food diary during this process.
The most effective method in the treatment of citrus allergy is to stay away from fruits that cause an allergic reaction. Staying away from these fruits will prevent your risk of having an allergic reaction. Citrus fruits are used in many areas. It is even used in salad dressings. For this reason, you will need to know the ingredients of the food you eat. You should read the labels of packaged foods in detail. It would be beneficial not to eat any food whose ingredients you suspect.
