Banana allergy is caused when the immune system mistakenly identifies certain proteins present in banana as harmful and fights against it. This results in a number of allergic symptoms such as itchiness, hives, abdominal pain etc. Banana allergy comes in two forms, one which is associated tree pollen allergies and the other related to latex allergies
Banana Allergies Associated With Tree Pollen Allergies:
Banana allergies and ragweed allergies are closely related as, the immune system treats some proteins in ragweed pollen and banana as similar. Hence, it triggers similar symptoms to both ragweed and banana.This is the reason why people with ragweed allergies can sometimes develop allergies to banana. This kind of allergy comes under oral allergy syndrome, in which is a person is allergic to both pollen and fruits, nuts, or vegetables etc.
Banana Allergies Associated With Latex Allergies:
Banana allergies and latex allergies are closely related as certain allergy-triggering proteins present in banana are also present in latex. One such protein is chitinase, found both in banana and latex. This phenomenon of being allergic to both latex and banana is known as latex-fruit syndrome.
Banana Allergy Symptoms:
Banana allergy symptoms are :
- Swelling and itching of tongue, lips, throat
- Hives
- Runny nose
- Diarrhea
- Anaphylactic shock which involves dizziness, loss of counsciousness, low blood pressure
Anaphylaxis can be fatal and hence, epinephrine should be injected to prevent the progression of symptoms.
Managing Banana Allergy:
Getting diagnosed is the best way to manage banana allergies. Consult your allergist who would conduct skin prick test or blood test to determine if you have banana allergies.
To manage banana allergy, one has to avoid banana in all forms.( However, some people do not develop allergies when banana is cooked, microwaved, or processed). To avoid banana allergy, you can take steps such as reading the labels, inquiring about the ingredients while eating out, checking for cross-contamination etc.
