Peach is a juicy edible fruit, which is used in jellies, jams, juices and other foods. Peach can cause an allergy resulting in both mild and severe allergic reactions. The allergy is caused due to the protein present in the peach. Avoiding peach and peach products is the only way to prevent peach allergy. In some cases, cooking the peach can eliminate the allergy risk.
Peach allergy is closely associated with birch pollen allergy.
What causes Peach Allergy?
The proteins present in the peach are responsible for triggering the allergy. Peach skin is considered to be more allergic than peach flesh. Cooking the peach destroys some allergy-causing proteins. Hence, an individual allergic to peach may tolerate cooked peach. However, this is not true in all cases.
Peach and associated allergies:
Individuals allergic to peach can also be allergic to birch pollen. This is because similar proteins are found in both peach and pollen. Similarly, those allergic to peach can also be allergic to apple, pear, apricot, cherry, melon, banana and nuts.
Mild peach allergy symptoms:
Mild peach allergy is confined to the mouth. It can result in itching/burning sensation in the mouth, tongue and lips. Watery eyes, runny nose can also be experienced. This is also known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS).
Severe peach allergy symptoms:
- Hives, rash, redness
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Dizziness, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing. These are the symptoms of anaphylaxis — which is a severe allergic reaction. If these symptoms are observed, the patient should be immediately administered epinephrine to control the allergic reaction.
Prevention of Peach Allergy:
- Avoid peach and peach processed products
- Read the food labels and avoid peach processed products
- Be careful while eating out, especially while ordering juices, jellies or salads. Do inquire about the ingredients and avoid peach containing foods
- Always carry an self-injectable epinephrine, which can be helpful to stop a severe allergic reaction
Testing and Treatment:
If you suspect that you are having peach allergy, do consult an allergist for testing. A skin prick test is conducted for determining the allergy. Once tested, your allergist can prescribe anti-histamines or corticosteroids to treat the allergic reaction.
