Strawberry allergy? The signs you shouldn't ignore (and what to do right away!)

What is strawberry allergy?

Strawberry allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies certain proteins in the fruit as harmful substances, triggering an allergic response. This reaction can cause symptoms of varying intensity, from mild discomfort to more significant manifestations. Although it is considered a relatively rare allergy, it should not be underestimated, especially in children, who are more sensitive to this type of allergen.

According to reports from the popular science website Microbiology Italy, strawberries contain proteins molecularly similar to those found in birch pollen. For this reason, people allergic to this type of pollen may develop a cross-reaction, that is, an allergic response even to the consumption of strawberries, despite never having associated them directly with a problem.

Symptoms to watch out for

Strawberry allergy symptoms can manifest differently from person to person, generally appearing within minutes to a few hours of eating the fruit. It is important to recognize them early in order to take proper action. Here are the most common ones:

• Itching of the mouth, throat or lips
• Hives and skin redness
• Swelling of the face or lips
• Nasal congestion, sneezing or difficulty breathing
• Gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea

How is strawberry allergy diagnosed?

If you experience suspicious symptoms (such as those mentioned above) after consuming strawberries, it is essential to consult an allergist. Only a specialist can properly assess the situation and rule out other causes. The diagnosis of strawberry allergy is based on a thorough clinical history and specific tests. Here are the main diagnostic modalities:

• Skin test (Prick Test): pconsists of applying a small amount of the allergen (in this case, strawberry extract) to the skin and then pricking it lightly. If a local reaction develops (such as redness or swelling), the test is considered positive.
• Specific IgE assay: through a simple blood draw, the presence of IgE antibodies directed against strawberry protein is tested. This test helps confirm allergic sensitization.
• Oral provocation test: is performed exclusively in a hospital setting, under strict medical supervision. The patient takes small amounts of strawberries gradually to assess whether an allergic reaction occurs. This test is useful in doubtful cases, but should be done with the utmost caution.

Source: IHealthYou

What to do in case of strawberry allergy?

The main strategy for preventing allergic reactions to strawberries is avoidance: one must pay close attention to what one consumes. It is essential to carefully read the labels of packaged foods and cosmetic products, because strawberry (or its extracts) can be present in many unsuspected preparations: industrial sweets, ice cream, yogurt, jams, fruit juices, but also lip balms, face creams and perfumes.

In case of accidental contact, prompt action is essential:

• Taking an antihistamine, as directed by your doctor, can help control mild symptoms such as itching, hives or nasal congestion.
• In the presence of severe symptoms (swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing, drop in blood pressure), an adrenaline auto-injector, if prescribed, should be used. This life-saving tool can nip an anaphylactic reaction in the bud while waiting for help.

Remember to always consult a professional when in doubt

Consulting an allergy doctor is crucial. Only a professional can assess the severity of the allergy, establish an individualized contingency plan, and indicate whether adrenaline is needed. In addition, through specific tests, he or she can clarify whether it is a true strawberry allergy or a cross-reaction related to other allergens (such as birch pollen).

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