Runny nose, nasal congestion, asthma, diarrhea and skin rashes are often experienced by some individuals after consumption of pineapple juice. It is important to note that these are indications of an allergic response. Based on studies conducted, pineapples and other tropical fruits are capable of causing food allergies. The individual who is allergic to pineapple must avoid eating or drinking beverages that contain the fruit until a doctor is consulted. Always remember that the ingestion of pineapple can trigger the allergy symptoms that can lead to further health complications.
What is pineapple allergy?
It is still unclear why the immune system mistakenly identifies certain proteins in foods as dangerous, but if the immune system malfunctions once the individual consumes pineapple juice, he/she will experience an allergic response.
Pineapple juice contains proteins that can easily trigger an overreaction of the immune system. It is important to note that the immune system will try ward off proteins from the pineapple juice by producing the immunoglobulin E antibodies or IgE into the circulation. These antibodies will trigger a chain reaction in the body that eventually results to the generation of different chemicals that leads to the manifestation of the symptoms.
Symptoms of pineapple allergy
An individual who is allergic to pineapple juice will experience reactions on different parts of the body. When it comes to the digestive tract, the symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, cramping, vomiting and nausea. The respiratory system will lead to the swelling in the lungs and sinuses, resulting to the asthma symptoms. Other symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, tightness of the chest, coughing, sinus congestion, and shortness of breath, facial tenderness and sinus headaches. The skin reactions include itchiness, redness and inflammation.
What is allergic contact dermatitis?
The common skin reaction to citrus and tropical fruits such as pineapple is allergic contact dermatitis. The rash develops once the skin comes into direct contact with pineapple juice. The reaction is localized to the area of contact and can lead to the formation of blisters, redness of the skin and severe itchiness.
As a first aid measure, you have to wash the affected area using water and soap and apply hydrocortisone cream. In case the rash persists or worsens after treatment, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
What is anaphylaxis?
Even though rare, an allergy connected to food can lead to a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This occurs once the whole body develops an allergic response, resulting to life-threatening symptoms to occur within seconds after consumption of pineapple juice. The common indications of anaphylaxis include lightheadedness, severe stomach pain, abrupt drop in the blood pressure and weak heart rate. It is important to call for emergency assistance once this type of allergic reaction occurs. If an EpiPen is available, it must be administered to counteract the symptoms.