Pollen Allergies & Oral Allergy Syndrome: Sore Mouth & Throat?

A condition known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS) causes an allergic reaction in the mouth and throat. Reactions include a burning sensation, hives, itching and swelling.

Oral Allergy Syndrome

• Some people who have allergies to airborne pollen proteins like trees, grass or weeds have the same reaction to proteins in some foods--mostly raw fruits and vegetables--according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma &Immunology. The immune systems in these people recognize the proteins as the same.

Occurrence

• About one third of all allergy sufferers have OAS. Sometimes the symptoms are worse during allergy season (spring and fall), but not always.

Testing

• There is no test for OAS, but those who have tested positive for specific food and/or pollen allergies may have a history of it.

Causes

• Below are some common pollens and their associated food allergies.
  Birch: potato, tomato, spinach, kiwi, apple, carrot, peanut, walnut, almond, wheat, apple, carrot, cherry, pear, peach
  Mugwort: celery, melon, chamomile, hazelnut, fennel, cumin
  Grass: orange, kiwi, cherry, peanut, melon
  Ragweed: melon, honey, banana, sunflower seeds

Treatment

• If it isn't possible to avoid the foods causing OAS, you can reduce the symptoms by cooking the food or eating canned varieties.