Cross-allergy​

Understanding Cross-Allergy and Its Symptoms:

Cross-Allergy Explained:

  • Cross-allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to substances with similar structures to those you are allergic to.
  • It’s like getting allergy symptoms from something you’re not actually allergic to, due to the immune system’s mistaken response.
  • Commonly, people allergic to pollen may react to certain foods due to protein similarities.

Causes of Cross-Allergy:

  • The immune system’s response is triggered by tiny protein structures, making it difficult to predict what can cause cross-allergy.
  • Oral allergy syndrome is a type of cross-allergy where pollen-allergic individuals react to certain foods.

Symptoms and Alleviation:

  • Symptoms of cross-allergy can be milder and may disappear when foods are cooked.
  • For example, birch pollen allergy can cause reactions to raw potatoes but not boiled ones.
  • Cross-allergy reactions can manifest as itching or stinging on the lips, in the mouth, or throat after consuming certain foods.
  • Symptoms can be more noticeable during pollen season when the immune system is already active.

Specific Cross-Allergies:

  1. Birch Pollen Allergy:
    • Reactions to apricot, cherries, hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts, and more.
    • Cooking these foods might alleviate symptoms.
  2. Ragweed Pollen Allergy:
    • Reactions to fennel, honey, onion, melon, celery, and more.
  3. Timothy Grass Pollen Allergy:
    • Reactions to beans, oats, wheat, peas, and more.
  4. Latex Allergy:
    • Reactions to banana, avocado, chestnut, peach, and more.

Treatment and Seeking Care:

  • Cross-allergies are managed like other allergies by avoiding triggering substances.
  • Over-the-counter allergy medications can provide relief.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience unfamiliar reactions or if OTC medicines don’t help.
  • In case of severe symptoms like throat or lip swelling and difficulty breathing, call emergency services (112).

Note: Cross-allergies are not as severe as primary allergies and usually involve milder symptoms. If you’re uncertain about your symptoms or condition, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional.