Your throat likely gets itchy when you eat watermelon because you may have oral allergy syndrome (OAS), also known as pollen-food allergy syndrome, which is a type of cross-reactivity.
Understanding Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)
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Cross-Reactivity: OAS occurs when proteins in certain fruits and vegetables (like watermelon) are structurally similar to proteins found in specific types of pollen. Your immune system recognizes these similar proteins and triggers an allergic reaction.
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Pollen Connection: If you have hay fever (allergic rhinitis) due to pollen allergies (e.g., ragweed, birch), you are more likely to experience OAS.
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Watermelon Specifics: In the case of watermelon, certain proteins can mimic pollen allergens.
Symptoms and Reactions
- Immediate and Localized: Symptoms typically manifest immediately upon contact with the fruit, and are often localized to the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat.
- Itching and Tingling: The primary symptoms include itching, tingling, and mild swelling in the mouth and throat.
- Quick Resolution: In most cases, the symptoms are mild and resolve quickly after swallowing or removing the fruit from your mouth because the proteins are broken down by stomach acids.
What to Do
- Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve mild symptoms.
- Cooking: Cooking or processing the watermelon can denature the proteins responsible for the allergic reaction, making it less likely to cause symptoms.
- Allergy Testing: Consult an allergist for testing to confirm your specific pollen and food allergies.
- Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen): In rare cases, OAS can trigger a more severe allergic reaction. If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, or dizziness, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies.
- Avoidance: If your symptoms are bothersome, you may choose to avoid watermelon.
In summary, the itchy throat is likely due to cross-reactivity from pollen allergies and the proteins found in watermelon.
