The consumption or handling of fruits that contain citric acid such as plums, pineapples, oranges, limes, melons and lemons or any food that contain these ingredients can trigger an allergic reaction. In most cases, the symptoms will appear right away but can occur hours later.
The symptoms of citric acid intolerance and fruit allergies can range from mild to severe thus it is vital that if the individual is suffering from adverse reactions to these foods, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible.
Itchiness
An initial symptom experienced with a food allergy is the itchiness. Exposure to a food that the individual is intolerant or allergic to can trigger the body to release histamine which is a chemical in the body that fights off the allergy. The histamine can cause physical sensations such as itchiness and tingling. The usual spot where the itchiness starts is the tongue, lips and throat. If the itchiness is persistent, the doctor will provide certain medications that are taken orally or creams that can help manage the discomfort.
Inflammation
The inflammation can also indicate citric acid intolerance or allergy. The swelling of the lips, throat or tongue are often linked with food allergies and will make it difficult for the individual to breathe and swallow. Take note that the swelling can also develop in other parts of the body such as the ears, eyelids, chest and hands in the form of hives. These red-colored, elevated itchy bumps can manifest in a single spot or all over the body, depending on the severity.
Gastrointestinal issues
The gastrointestinal issues might not be evident right away and might take several hours to display any symptoms. The digestive distress typically depends on the amount of food eaten and the reactions that occurred. The individual will likely suffer from abdominal cramps, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.
Anaphylactic shock
Take note that anaphylactic shock is considered as a life-threatening indication of a food allergy. The anaphylaxis typically occurs within minutes after consuming the trigger food. Individuals who suffer from this condition can feel heart palpitations as the blood pressure drops and they can also become dizzy.
The other symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, flushing, racing pulse, nausea, itchiness, fainting and swelling of the throat. If the individual goes into anaphylactic shock, it is vital to consult a doctor right away since long-term exposure to the condition can eventually lead to death. Among those who are prone to severe reactions, the doctor will prescribe an injectable epinephrine in order to counteract the symptoms. Once an epinephrine shot is given, the individual must be taken to the hospital for further assessment of his/her overall status. If you want to learn more about the proper measures to deal with an allergic reaction, click here.