The symptoms of oral allergy syndrome (OAS) are generally centered around the lips, mouth or pharynx (back of the throat). Symptoms include:

• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or palate (upper surface of the mouth)
  
  
• Itching of the lips, mouth or pharynx
  
  
• Gingivitis (gum disease)

These symptoms typically develop immediately after the problem food is consumed. Patients may also develop watery, itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the tissue lining the inside of the eyelid) and rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose).

Though more rare, some individuals will experience allergy symptoms as the body attempts to expel the food. These gastrointestinal symptoms include:

• Stomach cramping
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Occasionally some individuals will have a more serious response as a result of OAS. Though very rare, this reaction may include:

• Asthma attack. Onset of asthma symptoms, including:
  
  
• • Rapid breathing
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Chronic coughing
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Stuffy head
    
    
• Anaphylaxis. Potentially life-threatening reaction characterized by constricted airways. Symptoms may include:
  
  
• • Shortness of breath
  • Tightening in the chest or throat
  • Choking
  • Loss of consciousness

Symptoms may also develop from simply handling raw fresh fruits and vegetables. Contact with the peels or juice of problem foods may lead to a rash or itching and swelling on the skin. Sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes may also result from touching the foods.