Introduction
Allergy to apples is one of the allergies of the immediate type. This means that after eating the apple, a reaction is triggered by the immune system within seconds to minutes. All food allergies as well as pollen allergies belong to the immediate type.
Causes
Apple allergy is one of the type 1 allergies of the immediate type. If an apple is eaten, the smallest structures, so-called antigens of the apple are absorbed through the mucous membrane in the mouth. The immune system mistakenly recognises these antigens as hazardous substances and triggers a complex inflammatory reaction.
Among other things, histamine is released, which then locally triggers the symptoms described below. In addition, memory cells are formed, which can trigger a rapid immune response again when there is renewed contact with apples. The number of people who are allergic to apples is increasing. It is being discussed whether the chemical products that are frequently used in cultivation are related to this.
What are the symptoms of apple allergy?
The symptoms of an apple allergy are already apparent during consumption or shortly afterwards. They can be of varying degrees of severity, so that in one person there are only small local reactions on the mucous membrane and in another person there are pronounced and threatening symptoms. If these severe symptoms occur, a doctor should always be consulted so that further complications can be prevented accordingly. – small blisters or pustules in the mouth and throat
- Burning or itching in the area that can also spread to the tongue
- Mucous membrane swells quickly
- Swallowing difficulties
- Shortness of breath
Is there an allergy test?
An apple allergy can be examined with the prick test. It is one of the standard diagnostic tests when it comes to clarifying allergies. It is important to perform the test in a symptom-free interval and antihistamines must not be taken.
In this procedure, the allergen is dripped onto the skin in liquid form. A small needle is then used to insert a needle through the liquid into the skin. After a certain time, the reaction on the skin is then assessed.
In case of an apple allergy, one would expect a clear skin reaction with redness and swelling at the site of the apple allergen. In addition to the prick test, an IgE test can also be performed. The IgE is determined in the blood and an increased value would indicate a positive allergy detection.
However, this method is unspecific. Finally, a provocation test can also be carried out at the doctor’s office. Under medical supervision you eat some apple and the reaction is then closely observed.
Which cross-allergies can exist?
In the case of an apple allergy there are often other allergies to allergens similar to the apple. Especially people with an allergy to early blossoming plants, such as birch, like to develop an allergy to apples. Cross-allergies to cherry, peach or kiwi are also known.
