Peach Allergy Test

Peach allergy is a condition that causes an allergic reaction when you consume peaches or fruits with the same protein formation. Most people who suffer from this condition are allergic to an allergen found in peaches, known as 9-kd protein. It belongs to the group of lipid transfer proteins.

9-kd protein is the only allergen recognised by patients allergic to peach but not sensitised to birch pollen. Due to the similarity between a protein in birch pollen and peach, people who are allergic to one develop an allergy to the other.

Food allergies are usually caused by the body's immune system identifying the proteins or other substances as potential threats. As a result, it triggers a response in the form of an allergic reaction. This is also known as cross-reactivity and takes place with several food items.

People who experience an allergic reaction after eating peaches may suffer from Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) or Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS). Under this condition, your immune system cannot recognise or differentiate between proteins of similar components to those of pollens or allergens.

Some of the symptoms of a peach allergy are:

• Swelling, itching, or redness of lips
• Cramps or burning sensation in the stomach 
• Diarrhoea 
• Chest tightness, shortness of breath, or wheezing
• A runny nose, sneezing, or hayfever

If you experience these symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately and opt for a peach allergy test. 
With the peach allergy test from Apollo 24|7, you can easily discover the underlying cause of your symptoms.

There is no permanent cure for peach allergy since many allergies are genetic. However, there are several treatment plans that you can work on with your doctor. Based on the severity of your allergy, your doctor may decide to recommend a plan that includes the following:

• Symptom relief: Under this plan, your doctor may prescribe you to take either an epinephrine auto-injector, antihistamines, or bronchodilator. These medicines help relieve mild or severe symptoms such as asthma or bronchospasm.
• Exposure reduction: This plan includes reducing your exposure to allergens by reading ingredient labels, avoiding cross-contamination, avoiding food and desserts containing food allergens, carrying emergency medication, etc. 
• Emergency plan: The emergency plans are most effective for people suffering from severe allergic reactions and showing signs of shock. This plan requires immediate medical responses for those who look pale, weak, with a rapid pulse, are confused, have trouble breathing, and lose consciousness.

Each of these plans is designed specifically for your allergy levels and severity. Additionally, you must actively work on preventing your exposure to food allergens that may cause an allergic reaction in your body. Exposure reduction is one of the best and most common treatment plans to deal with a peach allergy. 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Saibal Moitra, Allergist and clinical immunologist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.

Frequently asked questions

What causes peach allergy?

Peach allergy is most commonly caused by pollen allergies. It occurs due to the presence of some proteins found in certain vegetables or raw fruits resembling the proteins found in pollen.

How long does the allergy reaction last?

Once you eat the fruit and the symptoms occur, you will be able to manage them as they gradually subside after fifteen minutes. If you feel the symptoms are taking longer than usual to subside, you should reach out for medical help immediately. Consult your doctor to understand the symptoms better and find an appropriate treatment plan.

What are some of the most common types of fruit allergies?

Various fruits have been reported to cause allergies and an allergic reaction. The most common fruits that cause an allergic reaction are apples, peaches, and kiwis. These fruits contain the same proteins as allergy pollens.

What are the common symptoms during an allergic reaction?

Usually, allergies are accompanied by reactions that can be triggered based on the amount of exposure to the allergen. Depending on the severity of your allergy, your symptoms may get worse or subside quickly. Some common symptoms of an allergic reaction are itchy or watery eyes, wheezing, shortness of breath, rashes, irritated skin, swollen lips, etc.

When should you see a doctor in case of allergies?

You should see a doctor if you face severe allergic reactions like skin redness, asthma, bronchitis, difficulty breathing, or fainting. Furthermore, if you face severe complications like vomiting and have a combination of skin rashes, visit a doctor or your healthcare provider immediately.

How do you recognise tightness in the throat during an allergy reaction?

When you have tightness in the throat, you will feel your throat closing up. Swallowing will be challenging for you when you suffer from a reaction. Also, you may feel a lump in your throat and the need to swallow often.