Symptoms of a strawberry allergy are usually mild, although potentially fatal complications may sometimes arise. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms include numbness or tingling of the mouth, runny nose, and sneezing. Skin reactions may include itching, development of a rash, and dry patches of skin resembling eczema. Abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea sometimes occur due to a strawberry allergy. The most severe type of allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis and may cause the throat or tongue to swell, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
Oral allergy syndrome is the term given to the primary type of allergy. There may be a tingling or burning sensation affecting the mouth, and the lips may begin to feel numb. Additional symptoms resemble those of hay fever and may include sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. In most cases, these symptoms do not become severe enough to cause major health concerns, although more serious symptoms may follow. For this reason, a doctor should be consulted right away any time that a strawberry allergy is suspected.
A strawberry allergy may lead to a variety of skin reactions if the fruit is eaten or if it comes into contact with the skin of a person sensitive to strawberries. Itching, hives, and swelling are often seen among those with this type of allergic reaction. Some studies have suggested that a large percentage of people with eczema have undiagnosed food allergies.
Gastrointestinal disturbances may be caused by a strawberry allergy in some cases. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea typically occurs within a couple of hours of consuming products containing this fruit. Severe abdominal pain or swelling may indicate the development of serious complications and should be evaluated by a medical professional. Dehydration due to extreme vomiting or diarrhea may require hospitalization so that the necessary medications and fluids can be introduced directly into the bloodstream through a small catheter known as an IV.
Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal type of allergic reaction and requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylactic symptoms often begin with a rash and swelling of the lips, with the swelling moving rapidly to the tongue and throat. This inflammation can cause breathing to become difficult or impossible, and chest pain may also develop. Blood pressure levels may drop suddenly, leading to dizziness or a loss of consciousness. Emergency medical care is essential if symptoms of anaphylaxis develop, as permanent brain damage or even death may occur within a matter of minutes.