Hay fever could trigger other allergies, doctor reveals

Hay fever can trigger an allergic reaction to foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes, a doctor from a digital healthcare provider has revealed.

Spring and summer are key times for hay fever sufferers, with many people currently experiencing symptoms due to the recent ‘pollen bomb’ that has been seen across the UK.

However, Livi’s chief GP, Dr Bryony Henderson, says the allergic reaction caused by hay fever, which often leads to irritation and inflammation, mainly in the nose and eyes, can trigger the onset. oral allergy syndrome (AOS).

OAS is a cross allergy that can occur when the body exhibits an allergic reaction to other substances similar to the original allergen. This is because the different substances contain similar allergens and the body develops hypersensitivity to them.

For those who may have symptoms of VS, Dr. Bryony explains how to identify the syndrome and how to seek treatment.

VS symptoms

Oral allergy syndrome usually affects the mouth and throat. Common symptoms include:

• An itchy throat and tingling in the mouth
• Redness and swelling of the lips, tongue and throat
• Itchy throat and difficulty swallowing

About 90% of people allergic to birch pollen also have OAS and may experience mouth and throat problems. Symptoms often appear within 15 minutes of eating a trigger food, which are usually fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes, but easily go away on their own after a few minutes.

If you find yourself with an itchy throat after eating during hay fever season, you may be suffering from OAS, also known as pollen allergy syndrome and to food. ODS is linked to hay fever because certain foods have protein formation very similar to the pollen you are allergic to. For example, if you are sensitive to birch pollen (the most common allergen in the UK), it may cross-react with apples, apricots and plums among other fruits and vegetables. »

Dr Bryony Henderson, Chief GP Livi

“In rare cases, oral allergy syndrome can lead to anaphylaxis, which is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. If these symptoms appear, call 999 and follow the steps to treat anaphylaxis.

Treating OAS and hay fever:

“For those who are starting to develop breathing difficulties or are having trouble managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications, talking to a doctor can help. There are stronger hay fever medicines available on prescription or, in severe cases, a GP can refer you to an allergy specialist.

To help people manage their allergies over the next few months, Livi has launched a 2023 Pollen forecasts that show a breakdown of different pollen types and peak times, as well as advice on how to manage both hay fever and VS symptoms.