What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Avocados Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure the IgE antibody levels in the blood and to help detect an allergy to avocados. Avocados are becoming increasingly popular, meaning more people include them in their daily recipes. Greater exposure to food or substance increases the risk of developing an allergy. It may not be as widespread as peanut or shellfish allergies, but an individual can have an allergy to avocados just the same.
There are two types of avocado allergy. First is an oral allergy caused by oral allergy syndrome. If an individual has an allergy to birch pollen, it is highly possible to have an oral allergy to avocados. Fruits and vegetables growing close to pollen can cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to pollen. The second allergy is due to cross-reactivity with latex, otherwise known as latex-fruit syndrome. An individual with a latex allergy is more likely to react to avocados. This cross-reactivity means that both avocados and latex contain similar proteins.
Additionally, individuals that have a latex allergy may also be allergic to the following latex fruits:
- Kiwis
- Papayas
- Bananas
- Chestnuts
What foods or products should I avoid if I am allergic to avocados?
Avocados are part of a large group of vegetables known as the Lauraceae family. Since avocados are regularly used in cooking different foods, allergic individuals should pay close attention to foods that contain avocados and include all of the Lauraceae family. Some food that can cause avocado allergy symptoms include:
- Cinnamon
- Bay leaves
- Sassafras
- Prepared meals
- Salads
- Dips (guacamole)
- Salad dressings
- Sauces
- Muffins
- Puddings
- Smoothies
What causes an allergy to avocados?
An allergy to avocados is triggered by a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances (proteins) as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to combat these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
When should I order an Avocado Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to an onion allergy. Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can occur within minutes to a few hours after exposure. Common symptoms of an avocado allergy may include one or more of the following:
- Hives or rash
- Itching
- Headache
- Coughing or wheezing
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Tingling sensation in the mouth
- Trouble breathing
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur in some cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Rapid or increased pulse
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
