The sides of my mouth break out when I eat pineapple and tomato. Oranges, grapefruit, and other citrus fruits do not affect me. Why?
Q: Why do pineapple and tomato break out the sides of my mouth?
Answers (1)
4/ 1/10 3:19am
I can't diagnose you for sure, but there is a condition called "oral allergy syndrome", or OAS for short, that can cause a sensitivity to certain fruits and vegetables in people who have pollen allergies. I'm not sure about pineapple, but tomatoes are definitely associated with an allergy to grass pollen.
Experts think it has to do with a cross reactivity to certain proteins found in both the pollen and the food. Symptoms can include itching, burning, tingling and occasionally swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue and throat where the fresh fruit or vegetable touched.
To learn more, check out my post on Oral Allergy Syndrome
To your health,
Kathi
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By Kathleen— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 03/29/10
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