Pineapples are loved by many people, but it can result in rashes, itchiness of skin and diarrhea in a few people. Touching a pineapple or inhalation can trigger an allergic reaction. People with kiwi fruit allergies and papaya allergies are at high risk of pineapple allergy. The enzyme Bromelain, which is present in pineapples, kiwi fruits and papayas, is mostly responsible for triggering allergies.
Pineapple Allergy Symptoms:
- Rashes
- Itchiness of skin
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
In rare cases, pineapple allergy can result in anaphylaxis. Dizziness, low blood pressure and breathlessness are some of the symptoms of anaphylaxis. As anaphylaxis can be fatal, an epinephrine should be injected immediately to prevent anaphylactic shock.
Pineapple allergy testing:
If you experience rashes after eating a pineapple, you can get yourself tested by consulting an allergist. Blood test (RAST) and skin prick test are the tests which are conducted to check for pineapple allergy.
Pineapple allergy Treatment:
Antihistamines and topical corticosteroids can be used to treat the pineapple allergy symptoms. If the allergic reaction involves symptoms such as breathlessness and dizziness, an epinephrine should be immediately used to prevent anaphylactic shock.
Preventing Pineapple allergy:
To prevent pineapple allergy:
- Pineapple in all forms should be avoided
- You can read the labels of the drinks/food products to determine if they contain pineapple and avoid such products
- Be careful while eating out as pineapple can get mixed into the food stuff due to cross-contamination
- Always ask the ingredients used in the dish while eating out
Pineapple allergy can cause a lot of discomfort. However, proper diagnosis and avoidance can prevent the allergy. Do consult your allergist if you are doubtful that you have an allergy to pineapple.
More Treatments for Pineapple Allergy
The main thing is to avoid contact with the allergen. So, dietary modification is necessary to exclude pineapples. Other useful treatments include:
- Nasal sprays, including anthistamines and topical steroids, for allergic rhinitis.
- Eyedrops — olapatadine, ketotifen, levocabastine and ketorolac for allergic conjunctivitis.
- For asthma, take inhaled corticosteroids and inhaled beta agonists.
- Take oral steroids for moderate allergic symptoms, with skin conditions or asthma.
- Desensitization to get used to the allergen.
- In case of anphylactic reaction, hospitalization may be necessary.
