Peach Allergy
Peach; It is a fruit rich in nutrients, with high antioxidant capacity, aids digestion, is good for heart health, has a protective effect on the skin, and has the ability to strengthen immunity. However, some people may develop a peach allergy. Like many allergies to fresh fruits and vegetables, peach allergy can occur in two ways. Some people who are allergic to birch pollen may also develop an allergy to peaches. The reason for this is the similarity between birch protein and the protein found in peaches. This condition causes symptoms such as itching and tingling in the mouth, which generally appear within 5 to 15 minutes after eating a peach. This is called “oral allergy syndrome.” Some people are directly allergic to peaches, and this is rare.
Peach Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms of a peach allergy usually appear within minutes of eating a peach. For some people, it may take a little longer for symptoms to appear. Symptoms of peach allergy can range from mild to severe and vary from person to person.
You may show one or more of the symptoms of peach allergy at the same time.
These symptoms are:
Oral Symptoms
- itching in the mouth,
- Itching or irritation in the throat,
- Redness and swelling on the lips,
- Swelling of the tongue.
Symptoms on the Skin
- skin redness,
- Hives,
- itching sensation,
- Boils and similar conditions.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Abdominal pain or burning sensation,
- cramps, Nausea,
- Diarrhea,
- Vomiting,
Respiratory Symptoms
- Nose itching,
- Grunt,
- Sneeze,
- Cough,
- Feeling of tightness in the chest,
- allergic rhinitis,
- Shortness of breath or feeling of suffocation,
Anaphylaxis (Allergic Shock)
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to coma or even death if not treated immediately.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- sudden drop in blood pressure,
- rapid pulse,
- Loss of consciousness,
- speech disorder,
- Narrowing of the airways or difficulty breathing,
- Fainting.
Risk Factors in Peach Allergy
- *People who are allergic to birch pollen have a higher risk of having an allergic reaction to peaches.
- *People with a family history of peach allergy have a higher risk of developing a peach allergy.
- *Those who are allergic to any fruit from the Rosaceae family have a higher risk of developing peach allergy.
- *A person with oral food syndrome has a higher risk of developing peach allergy.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Peach Allergy
If you have experienced peach allergy symptoms, you need to see an allergist. Allergists are the most competent people who can make a clear diagnosis of whether you have allergies or not. In the diagnosis of peach allergy; blood test, skin prick test or food challenge test may be performed. In blood test; The immunoglobulin E antibody in your blood that has developed for allergies is checked. In the skin prick test; A very small amount of peach allergen is placed under your skin by making a small incision. The application area is then observed and if there is any redness or blistering in the area, it is concluded that you have an allergy. In the nutrient loading test; Your allergist may ask you to eat peaches. Your allergist determines the amount of peaches you eat and keeps you under surveillance. This test must be done by an allergist and in a medical clinic. As a result of these tests, it is diagnosed whether you have a peach allergy or not. The most effective treatment method for peach allergy is to stay away from peaches and all products containing peach. Excluding the allergen helps keep allergies under control. In some cases, you may consume a food containing peach without realizing it. To eliminate the uncomfortable effect of an allergic reaction, your allergist may recommend using antihistamine medication. Antihistamine medications cannot prevent an allergic reaction, they can only reduce the symptoms of allergy. Your specialist may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector to reduce the risk of a serious allergic reaction. Your allergist will educate you on the details of how to use this auto-injector.
