Ragweed season is here. If you find yourself dealing with some new food allergies it may be oral allergy syndrome. Learn how to stop the symptoms.
If you are experiencing allergies during the fall months you are likely one of the 10-30% of Americans that suffer from hay fever, or allergic rhinitis. And of the most common causes of hay fever during fall is ragweed.
Ragweed is very common in Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic have been showing a rise in the pollen counts lately.
Issues Caused by Ragweed Allergies
The reaction to ragweed pollen is sometimes called hay fever. The symptoms are similar to cedar fever which is usually caused by cedar pollen. Allergy testing can help you figure out which it is for you.
Symptoms of hay fever include-
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Cough
- Sinus and facial pain and pressure
- Decreased sense of taste or smell
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose, the roof of the mouth, or throat
Treatments include antihistamines, corticosteroids, allergy shots, decongestants, and other over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Another way you can help reduce your systems is by eliminating some foods that may be causing you to have Oral allergy syndrome.
Oral allergy syndrome is caused by cross-reacting allergens found in pollen and in raw vegetables, fruits, seeds, and tree nuts. The immune system recognizes similar proteins found in these foods and causes an allergic reaction to them. Cooked forms of foods don’t often cause the same issue. Ragweed is an allergen that suffers from oral allergy syndrome often have.
It’s estimated that up to a third of pollen allergy patients suffer from oral allergy syndrome. Most cases are mild but they can cause serious, even life-threatening reactions.
Common oral allergy syndrome triggers for ragweed suffers include-
- Banana
- Cucumber
- Cantaloupe
- Melons
- Zucchini
- Echinacea
- Chamomile
- Artichoke
- Hibiscus
If you eat these foods take note of any symptoms after.
The most common symptoms of OAS include-
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Tingling at the back of your throat
- Itchy or swollen lips
- Scratchiness on the roof of your mouth
If you notice any of these reactions be sure to let your doctor know and avoid the food. You can also avoid these foods as a precaution, as you may not be able to notice they are making your allergies worse.
Tracking Your Symptoms
A great way to track your symptoms is with a food allergy journal. You can buy one that is already prepared for you or download our free food tracking printables. You can track what you eat and the symptoms you are having to see if there is any link.
Be sure to check the Oklahoma Allergy and Asthma Clinic’s website to stay up-to-date on current pollen counts.
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Anne says
I still love getting outdoors in every season, ragweed or not!