Kiwi Allergy – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Kiwi fruit is also known as Chinese gooseberry as it originates from China. This fruit has been commercially developed and is being exported to New Zealand. The fruit is named after the national bird of New Zealand, the Kiwi. One takes the fruit in its raw form, and the fruit is primarily used to prepare salads, puddings, juices, etc.

Kiwi is indeed a tasty fruit with several health benefits, but it also causes an allergic reaction. Let us observe the symptoms caused by this allergy:

Kiwi Allergy Symptoms

Some of the top symptoms of kiwi fruit allergy include:

• Burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, and lips.
• Itching also in similar areas.
• Tingling in the mouth, tongue, and lips.
• Swelling of one’s mouth, tongue, and throat.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening form of allergic reaction.

Children are more prone to severe types of allergic reactions as compared to adults. It can cause a life-threatening reaction among children under five.

How does Kiwi fruit cause allergy?

Our immune system mistakenly identifies the protein contained in the fruit as harmful and thus causes a reaction in our body system. Histamine gets released in our body system, thus causing an allergic reaction. People who are allergic to birch pollen can also develop an allergy to kiwi fruit. If a person is allergic to birch pollen and have a lot of IgE (an allergic antibody) to it, you may also have an allergy to kiwi fruit.

What are the allergies one suffers from Kiwi intake?

Kiwi fruit allergy is closely associated with Birch Pollen and Latex allergies. Those who suffer from these allergies are more prone to experience an allergic reaction while having Kiwi. This is so as the protein contained in Kiwi is similar to those contained in the birch pollen and latex.

Grass pollen and mugwort pollen are also linked up with Kiwi fruit. Incidentally, those suffering from allergies caused by Kiwi fruit can also suffer from an allergic reaction to hazelnut, apple, avocado, and banana.

Treatment of Kiwi fruit allergy

• Skin prick test is adopted to investigate Kiwi allergy. One can also undergo blood tests. Once the allergy is detected, one is advised to avoid Kiwi fruit at all costs completely.
• One must consult one’s physician if one reacts to Kiwi fruit.

Kiwi fruit is undoubtedly very tasty, but some people may be allergic to it. Even children are susceptible to allergies caused by Kiwi.

Kiwi Allergy FAQs

What is a kiwi allergy?

A kiwi allergy is caused due to hypersensitivity to proteins found in kiwifruit. The immune system response can have symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

What foods should be avoided if you have a kiwi allergy?

If a person has a kiwi allergy, he should avoid products that contain fresh kiwi, dried kiwi, kiwi jam, or any kiwi juice. Kiwi is also used in smoothies, fruit salads, and baked goods, which should also be avoided.

Can someone with a kiwi allergy eat other fruits?

A person suffering from a kiwi allergy can also be allergic to fruits like bananas, avocados, and melons. This is commonly called oral allergy syndrome. It is recommended to avoid all till they undergo evaluation by an allergist.

How is a kiwi allergy diagnosed?

A kiwi allergy can be diagnosed by a skin prick test which is the most potent test for allergies. It measures the levels of specific antibodies to kiwifruit.

How is a kiwi allergy treated?

The best way to treat a kiwi allergy is to avoid kiwi fruit and all kiwifruit products. The accidental exposure could be treated with antihistamines or epinephrine.