Yes, people can be allergic to avocados. An avocado allergy is a genuine condition that can manifest in various ways, from mild discomfort to more severe reactions. The immune system can mistakenly identify proteins in avocados as harmful, triggering an allergic response.
Recognizing the Signs
Symptoms of an avocado allergy can vary widely, ranging from mild to severe. Common signs include itching or tingling in the lips, mouth, or throat shortly after consuming avocado. People may also experience hives, a rash, or swelling of the lips, face, or tongue. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort can also occur. In more serious cases, an avocado allergy can lead to respiratory problems such as wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, is a rare but possible symptom, characterized by shock, low blood pressure, and throat swelling.
Understanding the Types of Reactions
Avocado allergies primarily stem from two immunological mechanisms: Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) and Latex-Fruit Syndrome. Oral Allergy Syndrome, also known as pollen-food allergy syndrome, occurs when the proteins in avocado are similar to those found in certain pollens, such as birch pollen. For individuals with a pollen allergy, their immune system can cross-react, leading to localized symptoms primarily in the mouth and throat upon consuming avocado. These reactions are typically mild, causing symptoms like an itchy mouth or scratchy throat.
Latex-Fruit Syndrome involves cross-reactivity between natural rubber latex and certain plant-derived foods, including avocado. Approximately 30-50% of people with a latex allergy also show sensitivity to foods like avocado, banana, kiwi, and chestnut, because these foods contain proteins structurally similar to those in latex. Reactions associated with Latex-Fruit Syndrome can be more systemic and severe than OAS, potentially leading to symptoms beyond the mouth, such as hives, swelling, and in some cases, anaphylaxis.
Confirmation and What to Do Next
If an avocado allergy is suspected, seeking confirmation from an allergist is recommended. Diagnosis often involves a combination of a clinical history review, detailing symptoms and potential triggers, and allergy testing. Common diagnostic tests include skin prick tests, where small amounts of avocado extract are applied to the skin to observe for a reaction, and blood tests that measure specific antibodies (IgE) related to avocado allergens. In some instances, an allergist may conduct a supervised oral food challenge, where small, increasing amounts of avocado are consumed in a controlled medical setting to monitor for reactions.
Managing an avocado allergy primarily involves strict avoidance of avocados and avocado-containing products. This requires careful reading of food labels, as avocado can be found in unexpected items, including some vegan or paleo recipes, and even cosmetics. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines or cortisone creams may offer relief.
For individuals at risk of severe reactions like anaphylaxis, an allergist will likely prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector. This device delivers a rapid dose of epinephrine, the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Individuals at risk should carry two auto-injectors at all times and know how to use them. It is also important to have a written action plan from a doctor outlining steps to take in case of an allergic reaction.