Yes, you can be allergic to apples. There are two main types of allergic reactions to apples: true apple allergy and oral allergy syndrome (OAS).
- True apple allergy is a reaction to proteins within the apple, and it can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe.
- Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is a less severe allergy that affects the mouth and throat. It's often triggered by cross-reactivity with pollen, particularly birch pollen. This means that people with birch pollen allergy may develop an apple allergy because some proteins in apples are similar to proteins in birch pollen.
Symptoms of an apple allergy can include:
- Itching of the mouth and throat
- Itching, redness, and swelling of the lips
- Hives
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis (a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction)
If you experience any of these symptoms after eating apples, it's important to see a doctor to get diagnosed and discuss treatment options.
