Allergic to strawberries most often occurs in children, but also affects adults. One of the symptoms of an allergic reaction to strawberries is tingling or itching in the mouth, and swelling of the lips, tongue, throat and face. Some people who are allergic to these sweet fruits experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash and itchy skin all over their body.

An allergy to strawberriesis the result of the body's reaction to certain proteins found in these red fruits.

As a result of an allergic reaction, the body produces IgE antibodies that bind to the surface of immune cells such as mast cells and basophils, releasing neurotransmitters such as histamine.

Histamine then causes the capillaries to dilate and increase the permeability of the blood vessels. As a result, blood leaks into surrounding tissue, causing swelling.

Strawberry allergy symptoms

Strawberry allergycauses various reactions that we can observe:

  • in the mouth and throat- the first symptoms of an allergic reaction to strawberries are tingling or itching of the tongue and mouth, and swelling of the lips, tongue, throat and face. An allergic person may also feel a tingling and burning sensation in the palate;
  • respiratory system- narrowing or spasm of the respiratory tract is the most dangerous symptom of an allergic reaction to strawberries, which can occur even minutes after eating strawberries. We then observe swelling of the tongue and throat, as well as difficulty in breathing and a characteristic wheezing. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock may occur which, in addition to breathing disorders, causes a sharp drop in blood pressure, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention;
  • digestive system- An allergic reaction to strawberries can cause digestive problems such as vomiting, nausea, cramps, abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms contact your doctor immediately.
  • on the skin- an allergic reaction to strawberries may manifest itself on the skin, leading to rash, hives,itching or dermatitis. As a result of an allergic reaction, histamine causes vascular permeability, which causes fluid leakage from the capillaries and swelling. These kinds of symptoms of an allergic reaction to strawberries are most common in children.

Excessive watery eyes, redness of the eyes and sneezing are also common symptoms of an allergic reaction to strawberries.

Strawberry allergy - how to deal with it?

When you notice symptoms of an allergy to strawberries, you should immediately eliminate them from your diet. Also, be careful with products that may contain strawberry pieces, such as juices, jams, jellies, cookies, fruit juices, milkshakes, etc.

The next step is to visit a doctor who will prescribe the appropriate medications. Fortunately, the allergy to this sweet fruit disappears in most allergy sufferers after their digestive system becomes immune, after a few years.

Some people may enjoy the taste of strawberries just one year after the onset of allergy symptoms. The rest can try white strawberries (also known as pineberries), which taste like pineapple.

Strawberry allergy in children and infants

Many pediatricians advise against the consumption of strawberries by nursing mothers due to the risk of an allergic reaction in the infant.

Remember that strawberries can only be introduced into a child's diet when they are 10 months old.

If you have allergies in your family, contact your doctor to schedule an extension to your child's menu with this sweet fruit.

If your child does not like strawberries, do not force him to eat, as sometimes reluctance is the first symptom of an allergy.

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About the authorMonika Majewska A journalist specializing in he alth issues, especially in the areas of medicine, he alth protection and he althy eating. Author of news, guides, interviews with experts and reports. Participant of the largest Polish National Medical Conference "Polish woman in Europe", organized by the "Journalists for He alth" Association, as well as specialist workshops and seminars for journalists organized by the Association.

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Allergies