Foods that cause cross-allergies with pollen and can aggravate symptoms

The Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC) estimates that 25 percent of the population in Spain suffers from allergies, which represents a considerable increase compared to recent years. This year's spring is particularly virulent due to the rainy season , but the worst part is undoubtedly for those who suffer from cross-allergies: to pollen and certain foods.

These are primarily patients diagnosed with pollen and/or mite allergies who begin to experience symptoms of intolerance or allergy to certain foods , particularly those involving fruits , seafood, and nuts. At first, one thinks it's a new allergy, but is it really? This condition is explained by the fact that the protein structures of certain foods and pollen are similar, leading the immune system to confuse them.

How many syndromes of this type are there?

According to experts in the field, a categorization can be established between certain pollens and nuts , especially in the Mediterranean region. Thus, a distinction would be made between grass pollen that crosses with the proteins of certain fruits and nuts, and birch pollen that crosses with proteins of certain fruits and nuts. with vegetables and fruits. There is also another paradigmatic and common case in our country: respiratory allergy to mites crossed with shellfish allergy. The most common relationships are:

The first steps to take

If you've read this far and feel identified, it would be a good idea to start avoiding foods that share proteins with the herbaceous plants mentioned above. And not only avoid eating them , but also handle them, meaning don't peel or cook these fruits , vegetables, and nuts. Although the best course of action would be to consult an allergist to clear up any doubts and have as peaceful a spring as possible.

Once all the allergens have been identified and the severity of the allergy in question has been assessed , treatment will involve prescribing the usual medications for this condition, such as antihistamines , nasal sprays with corticosteroids , and, in severe cases, epinephrine injections.

In addition, there are certain immunotherapy options that can be effective for this cross-reactivity syndrome when the protein involved is LTP (lipid transport protein). However, the truth is that, in general terms, there is no more effective solution than stopping eating the identified foods .

References

Mayo Clinic (n.d.). Allergies: Symptoms and Causes . https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497

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