Hi, welcome to the ehealth forum and I am glad to help you.
You seem concerned by the oral allergy syndrome to citrus fruits.
A significant number of people are affected each year by fruit allergies. If we take food allergies as a whole, nearly one fifth of the population are affected. It is worth knowing that fruit allergies, like all allergies, are often hereditary and if both parents have an allergy, you are more likely to also have that allergy than if only one parent has the allergy.
The common citrus fruit allergy symptoms are:
â¢Ulcers inside the mouth, tongue and lips
â¢Constriction of throat due to swelling. Itching and irritation in the throat
â¢Tingling sensation in the inner cheeks and lips
â¢Rashes on various parts of the body, hives
â¢Watery eyes that may itch
â¢Cold and flu symptoms, sneezing, coughing and wheezing
â¢Vomiting
â¢Respiratory complications, asthma attack and difficulty in breathing
â¢Diarrhea
If you experience an allergic reaction to citrus fruits, you should immediately see a doctor about it. Though the symptoms are usually mild, anaphylactic symptoms may be experienced by some. In such a case, treatment should be made available immediately. For the milder symptoms, antihistamines are administered. If there are skin rashes and hives, topical lotions and creams containing corticosteroids may be recommended. If there has been an asthma attack or respiratory problems, bronchodilators are used.
It is best to avoid eating citrus fruits. In unavoidable circumstances, peeling off the skin of the fruit may help decrease chances of developing citrus fruit allergies. Freshly picked citrus fruits are better than those that are very ripe. Fruit juices and other beverages that may contain citrus fruit pulp or juices should also be avoided.
Hope this helps. Take care.
Note: This post is not to emphasise final diagnosis as the same cannot be made online and is aimed just to provide medical information and no treatment suggested above be taken without face to face consultation with health care professional.