Allergy to citrus fruits in adults

It is believed that citrus fruits are better than other fruits, as they bring many benefits to our health. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help fight viral infections and seasonal illnesses. Oranges, lemons, limes – all this boosts the immune system, preventing the attacks of viruses and bacteria. Also, citrus fruits contain a large amount of water, which helps to hydrate the body. But some people are allergic to them. This allergy is called “citrus allergy”. When eating any citrus ingredient, they develop allergic symptoms. This allergy is rare, but can be quite severe.

Food allergies are very common and in most cases can cause many unpleasant symptoms. Food allergies and intolerances can take many forms, but fortunately they are not dangerous in most cases. Allergy to citrus fruits can be a health problem for some people, especially for those who want to eat lemons or oranges. What’s more, citrus allergy can occur later in life after many years of trouble-free eating.

Can adults be allergic to citrus fruits?

Allergies are caused by allergens that your body interprets as hostile substances. It protects the body from these allergens that cause an allergic reaction. As a rule, people who are allergic to pollen experience citrus allergy. Whenever they touch, smell, or taste anything with citrus acid, their body reacts to these foods.

However, the citric acid found in citrus fruits does not cause this allergy because it is not an allergen. In fact, it is a flavoring agent that gives foods a tart or citrus flavor.

Although most allergies are mild, in some cases they can cause anaphylaxis, which is a serious condition and requires immediate medical attention.

Some triggers or causes of citrus allergy are highlighted.

cross reactivity. Most citrus allergies are caused by pollen allergy, a so-called cross-reactivity. It just so happens that citrus fruits and pollen share a common protein. This protein causes allergies in some people. When a person with a pollen allergy consumes citrus fruits, the body may mistake it for pollen due to the total protein and react. People who are allergic to pollen and grass are also sensitive to citrus fruits.

Lemon-allergy. This is an allergy caused by a chemical found in the peel of citrus fruits. A person with this allergy develops symptoms of contact dermatitis after touching the peel of citrus fruits. But surprisingly, they can consume fresh juice of lime or lemon, other fruits of this group.

How does an allergy to citrus fruits manifest in adults?

Most people who are allergic to citrus develop symptoms after eating foods or drinks made from raw citrus fruits. Citrus fruits include tangerines, oranges, limes, lemons, pomelo and grapefruit. Be careful: you can develop an allergic reaction not only to fresh fruit, but also to the peel. The most common signs usually include:

• severe itching in the mouth and throat;
• slight swelling of the gums and lips.

Contact with peels can cause allergic contact dermatitis. In this condition, the human body releases inflammatory chemicals after contact with an allergen. Symptoms affect the skin and usually include the following:

• itching;
• redness;
• burning;
• swelling;
• blisters;
• dryness.

However, in rare cases, an allergy to citrus fruits can lead to a systemic allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a dangerous condition that can be life-threatening. Signs of anaphylaxis include the following:

• swelling of the mouth and throat, which can lead to difficulty breathing;
• reddened skin;
• hives;
• asthma;
• nausea or vomiting
• drop in blood pressure;
• weakness.

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible.

How to treat an allergy to citrus fruits in adults

If you suspect that you or someone in your family has an allergy or sensitivity to citrus fruits, the best way to be safe is to avoid certain foods. Here’s what to cut out of your diet:

• avoid raw citrus fruits and citrus juice – when buying other varieties of juice, read the labels on the labels, because sometimes they are mixed with juice;
• avoid freshly picked and unripe citrus fruits – they can irritate even more;
• be careful with citrus peels – many people add them to salads and pastries, always ask about the ingredients;
• avoid vitamin C supplements and flavored sweets, as these often contain citrus flavors.

Diagnostics

Traditional allergy tests use the skin prick method (also known as an allergy skin test) to determine if an allergic reaction will occur by introducing possible triggers into the skin with a needle prick. If you are allergic to this substance, you are forced to suffer because of your body’s reaction to the allergen.

Many laboratories offer a simpler and virtually painless blood test to determine the allergenic status of substances without the irritation associated with traditional skin pricks.

A quick blood test allows you to use your blood sample to detect external allergic reactions instead of causing unnecessary and painful reactions by introducing potential allergens into your system.

Modern methods

The simplest thing is to avoid contact with allergens. If reactions have already developed, treatment options include:

• bronchodilators, which reduce respiratory problems;
• medicated skin lotions, creams and ointments are used for rashes and skin diseases;
• Antihistamines may be used to reduce swelling.

Prevention of allergies to citrus fruits in adults at home

The most important and best option is to eliminate fruits from your diet. This stops most allergic reactions.

Popular questions and answers

Answered questions about allergies to citrus fruits pharmacist, teacher of pharmacology, editor-in-chief of MedCorr Zorina Olga.