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Anaphylaxis

Hello,

My question has to do with the fact that one year ago during the peak of my allergy season, March-May I had two anaphylactic reactions to some unknown substance.

I have been to two specialists in my area and they have no answers. I am curious if you have ever heard of airborne substances causing anaphylaxis or an overload of the system from allergens causing anaphylaxis. I have received no answers and now carry an epinephrine pen and take zyrtec.

Thank you for your time!

Debra

Dear Debra,

Thanks for asking about the occurrence of anaphylaxis during the peak of your allergy season.

There are several very important relationships between outdoor aeroallergens present in tree, weed and grass pollens and the foods we humans eat.

Ragweed contains allergens which are also in sunflower seeds, watermelon, cantaloupe, and banana.

Grass pollens have allergens which are shared by tomato, potato skins, onions, corn, fresh carrots and celery and other grass like foods.

Also, birch pollens are known to have cross-reacting allergens which are also present in celery, carrots, apples, peaches, pears and other stony, pitted fruits.

These important relationships may be over looked at times when evaluating patients who experience anaphylaxis in the peak of their outdoor allergy seasons.

Some patients with anaphylaxis react to unusual food allergens including the spices such as oregano, sage, dill, green peppers and/or "pesto sauce" [which is really an almond based food].

I hope this information is useful to you and your Allergy Specialist(s). Be certain to discuss these possibilities with your doctor.

Good luck.

Steve Kagen, M.D.
Allernet.com