Never heard of this…

Feeling concerned is a natural reaction for parents when a child describes an odd feeling after eating a favorite food. For example, if your 6-year-old says, “my tongue feels itchy” after eating a bowl of fresh strawberries, it can be both confusing and worrying. While most people enjoy strawberries without any issues, some children might experience discomfort. Understanding the reason behind this can provide you with reassurance and clear guidance on what to do next.

Why Do Strawberries Sometimes Cause an Itchy Mouth?

The itchy or tingling sensation that can follow eating strawberries is often a sign of a condition called Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). This happens when the immune system mistakenly confuses certain proteins in fruits and vegetables with common pollen allergens. In strawberries, these proteins can cause a mild immune response, which leads to that itchy or tingling feeling in the mouth and throat.

Understanding the Symptoms

OAS symptoms typically appear very quickly, often within a few minutes of eating raw fruits or vegetables. You might notice your child complain of itching or tingling in their lips, tongue, throat, or the inside of their mouth. Sometimes, there might even be a little swelling of the lips or tongue. The good news is that these symptoms are usually temporary and fade away quickly once the food is swallowed or removed from the mouth. However, it’s crucial for parents to stay alert for more serious signs—such as trouble breathing or swallowing—which could indicate a more severe allergic reaction.

Pollen-Fruit Cross-Reactivity: The Main Culprit

One of the key reasons strawberries can trigger OAS is a phenomenon known as pollen-fruit cross-reactivity. Many fruits, including strawberries, have proteins that are similar to those found in certain pollens. For instance, a child who is allergic to birch pollen might also react to strawberries. In these cases, their immune system mistakes the proteins in the fruit for pollen, causing that distinct itchy sensation in the mouth.

Interestingly, cooking or processing strawberries can change these proteins, making them much less likely to cause a reaction. This is why some children can enjoy strawberry jam or a slice of strawberry shortcake without any issues, even though eating fresh strawberries causes them irritation.

Allergies vs. Sensitivities: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to know the difference between an allergy and a sensitivity. OAS is a type of allergy, but it’s typically less severe than classic food allergies that can lead to dangerous reactions like anaphylaxis. Food sensitivities, on the other hand, do not involve the immune system. They usually cause digestive problems, like an upset stomach, rather than a reaction in the mouth. If you’re unsure, a doctor or allergist can help clarify whether your child’s reaction is OAS, a different type of allergy, or simply a food sensitivity.

How to Manage and Prevent Symptoms

Parents can take several simple steps to help manage OAS in their children. A common approach is to simply avoid giving them raw strawberries and instead opt for cooked or processed versions. Keeping a food diary can also be a helpful tool for identifying other foods that might cause a similar reaction. Teaching your child to recognize and report their symptoms will empower them to avoid foods that cause discomfort. For mild reactions, an over-the-counter antihistamine can often help ease the symptoms.

When to Talk to a Doctor

If your child’s symptoms get worse, don’t go away, or involve breathing difficulties, you should seek medical attention right away. An allergist can perform tests to confirm a diagnosis and help you create a plan to manage the allergy safely. Professional medical advice is especially important for children who have asthma or other known allergies.

When a child says, “my tongue feels itchy” after eating strawberries, it can be alarming—but in many cases, it’s a mild and manageable condition like Oral Allergy Syndrome. By understanding the science behind these reactions, keeping a close eye on their symptoms, and working with healthcare professionals, you can ensure your child’s comfort and safety. With the right knowledge and strategies, you can feel confident and at peace when dealing with your child’s food reactions.