Posted on June 11, 2009 in Latest News
The birch tree can pose a huge problem for those with pollen allergy as it produces large amounts of pollen. The birch pollen can travel long distances and can cause allergic reactions such as itchy and water eyes, runny nose, sneezing etc. Those with birch allergy can also be allergic to certain fruits, vegetables and nuts due to allergic cross-reactivity.
Sometimes when people with birch allergy consume certain fruits, vegetables and nuts –they can experience the itching and swelling of mouth, lips and throat. This is caused due to an allergic-cross reaction between birch pollen and the fruits, vegetables. This allergic reaction is also known as Oral allergy syndrom or pollen-food allergy.
Why Does Birch Allergy Causes Oral Allergy Syndrome?
The birch pollen are structurally similar to the proteins present in certain fruits, vegetables and nuts. Hence when a person having birch allergy consumes certain foods, the immune system reacts to the structurally-similar proteins of the food.
Oral allergy syndrome can be sometimes prevented by peeling, cooking or baking the foods.
Food/Diet for people with Birch Allergy:
Those who have birch allergy can have allergies when they consume the following foods:
Apple, almonds, plum, carrot, cherries, pear, peach, wheat, potato, walnut, plum, pear and fennel.
Managing Birch Allergy:
- Avoid going outside when the pollen count is high
- Use HEPA enabled filters and vacuum cleaner in the house to get rid of the birch pollen
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen
If you have hay fever or oral allergy syndrome, using anti-histamines can help in relieving the allergic reaction. Always carry an epinephrine to prevent anaphylactic reaction.
To treat birch allergy, immunotherapy or allergy shots can be a long-term solution. In this treatment, small amounts of allergens are administered through injections over a period of time. Gradually, you would be desensitized and can overcome birch allergies. Consult your allergist for the best possible treatment for birch allergies.
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