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What Are the Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Strawberries?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

An allergic reaction to strawberries can lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on an individual reaction as well as the severity of the allergy. The most common symptom of this type of allergy is a condition called oral allergy syndrome, which is confined to the mouth and throat. Additional symptoms may include sneezing, watery eyes, or runny nose. Skin reactions and gastrointestinal disturbances are also possible signs of an allergic reaction. A severe reaction known as anaphylaxis may sometimes occur, and it can be fatal if not treated immediately.

In most cases, a person who is allergic to strawberries will develop oral allergy syndrome, which typically causes itching, swelling, and tingling of the mouth and throat. The lips, tongue, and palate may be affected as well. There may be a red ring surrounding the lips almost immediately after consuming a product containing strawberries. If these symptoms develop, the person should contact a medical professional to make sure that more severe symptoms do not occur.

Strawberries.
Strawberries.

A mild allergic reaction to strawberries may sometimes be confused with other allergies, such as hay fever. These symptoms often include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. It may become difficult to breathe through the nose, and those with respiratory illnesses such as asthma may notice that they get worse. Those who do not have asthma may experience symptoms that mimic this condition, such as wheezing, tightness of the chest, and labored breathing.

Strawberry coulis pooled around a dessert.
Strawberry coulis pooled around a dessert.

Skin reactions are common among those with allergic reactions. This normally involves redness and swelling around the mouth, although a rash may develop all over the body, especially in the more severe cases. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or abdominal cramping, should be reported to a medical professional to make sure that serious complications are not present.

EpiPens are used in the treatment of severe allergic reactions.
EpiPens are used in the treatment of severe allergic reactions.

The most severe type of allergic reaction to strawberries is a potentially life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis. This often causes the face, lips, and tongue to swell, and a rash or hives may develop anywhere on the body. The throat may swell to the point where it becomes difficult or even impossible to breathe. These symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency, as a lack of oxygen can cause permanent brain damage or even death within a matter of minutes if not treated immediately. Hospitalization may be necessary, and supportive care may be needed in order to help the patient breathe or to assist in regulating the heartbeat.

Discussion Comments

anon946310

My lips and the tip of my tongue get a little tingly too when I eat strawberries.

ZipLine
My toddler is extremely allergic to strawberries. If she's even touches strawberries, she breaks out in a red, blotchy rash. She starts itching and her eyes start to water.

I don't let strawberries or any strawberry dessert enter the house in fear that she might eat it and develop anaphylaxis.

bluedolphin

@alisha-- I'm not a doctor, so you may want to avoid strawberries until you can see your doctor about your symptoms and until you get an allergy test.

I personally don't think you have an allergy. It might be a sensitivity to the enzymes or acid in the strawberries. Some fruits contain enzymes that can cause some mild reactions in the mouth and lips.

I have a strawberry allergy and I get a rash all over my face if I eat strawberries.

discographer

I'm not sure if I'm allergic to strawberries or not. My lips sometimes become tingly and numb after eating strawberries, but it doesn't happen every time. I have the same exact reaction to cantaloupe sometimes.

Do you guys think this is an allergy?

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    • Strawberries.
      By: Anna Kucherova
      Strawberries.
    • Strawberry coulis pooled around a dessert.
      By: M.studio
      Strawberry coulis pooled around a dessert.
    • EpiPens are used in the treatment of severe allergic reactions.
      By: Greg Friese
      EpiPens are used in the treatment of severe allergic reactions.
    • Signs of an allergic reaction to strawberries may include hives.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Signs of an allergic reaction to strawberries may include hives.
    • A rash may develop on any part of the body as a result of a severe allergic reation to strawberries.
      By: ArTo
      A rash may develop on any part of the body as a result of a severe allergic reation to strawberries.
    • A mild allergic reaction to strawberries can include a runny nose and sneezing.
      By: CandyBox Images
      A mild allergic reaction to strawberries can include a runny nose and sneezing.