What Is A Palm Tree Allergy?
Palm allergy is an allergy to palm trees and anything containing palm such as palm oil. Palm trees are part of the botanical family of perennial lianas, shrubs, and trees. They grow in hot climates and are related to grasses. So, palm tree pollen can affect those sensitive to grass pollen. Different types of palm trees produce different levels of pollen. For example, date palm trees typically produce large amounts of allergy-causing pollen, but royal palms do not.
Palm oil is in many products – it’s in close to 50% of the packaged products we find in supermarkets, everything from pizza, doughnuts, and chocolate, to deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, and lipstick. It’s also used in animal feed and as a biofuel in many parts of the world. So if you have a palm allergy, it’s important to know common symptoms and how to manage the allergy.
Palm Allergy Symptoms
Palm allergy symptoms include
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, or skin
- Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Hives, rash, or eczema
- Anaphylaxis (rarely)
These symptoms normally occur seasonally, usually during the spring and summer months when palm trees are in bloom. However, some people may experience symptoms year-round if they live or work in an area where there are a lot of indoor palm plants. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person and can be mild to severe.
Palm Allergy Diagnosis
Palm allergy can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing. Some common methods used to diagnose palm allergy are:
- Skin test: A small amount of palm extract is placed on the skin, and the skin is then pricked. If a person is allergic, a red, raised bump (hive) will appear at the test site.
- Blood test: A blood sample is taken and analyzed for the presence of antibodies to palm.
- Symptom check: A doctor will ask about the symptoms and when they occur, and may also ask about the presence of palm trees in the individual’s environment.
- Nasal smears: A sample of mucus from the nose is taken and analyzed for the presence of inflammation or allergy cells.
Allergies can be caused by different allergens, so a person may have more than one type of allergy, and the symptoms can be confusingly similar, so a proper diagnosis is important to rule out other causes of the symptoms, and to be able to recommend the right treatment.
Palm Allergy Treatment
Treatment for a palm allergy typically involves avoiding exposure to palm trees as much as possible. If exposure is unavoidable, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can be used to alleviate symptoms. Nasal corticosteroids may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. These medications can help to alleviate symptoms, but they do not cure the underlying allergy.
In some cases, a person may need to consider more aggressive treatment options such as immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. These shots involve injecting small amounts of the allergen (in this case, palm extract) into the person’s body to help build up their immunity to the allergen over time. Immunotherapy can be effective in reducing the severity of symptoms and may even lead to complete relief for the allergy. It is important to consult with an allergist for the best treatment plan for your specific allergy.
Palm Allergy Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a Palm Allergy?
Palm allergies are usually caused by the pollen produced by these trees. However, they may also be caused by the oils coming from palm trees.
How Can I Tell If I Have A Palm Tree Allergy?
Consulting with an allergist and undergoing allergy testing can help determine if you have a palm allergy. Book an appointment with NY Allergy & Sinus Centers to determine if you have a palm allergy.
How Do I Treat My Palm Allergy?
Avoidance is the best treatment for palm allergy. Other treatment options include over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays. Allergy shots may be considered as well.
Is There A Cure For Palm Allergies?
While there isn’t a cure, allergy shots can help reduce your symptoms to palm allergies. In many cases, you will feel relief within six months.
Can I Still Live Near Palm Trees If I Have A Palm Allergy?
It is possible to live near palm trees if you have a palm allergy, but it may be difficult to avoid exposure to pollen. It is important to consult with an allergist for the best plan for managing your allergy.
Are Palm Allergies Common?
Palm allergies are rare. You are more likely to react to the grasses or weeds around palm.
How Can I Reduce My Exposure to Palm Tree Pollen?
Avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times and keeping windows and doors closed during high pollen days can help reduce exposure.
Can I Be Allergic to Other Types of Trees If I Am Allergic to Palm Trees?
if you are allergic to one tree, you are not necessarily allergic to another. Two types of trees are exempt from this rule. The first is the family which contains beech, oak, and birch. The second is the one that contains cedar and juniper. If you are allergic to one of these trees, you will likely experience symptoms in at least one tree in the same family.
How Long Do Palm Allergy Symptoms Last?
Symptoms can vary depending on the individual but typically last as long as the individual is exposed to the allergen. If you avoid palm, you likely won’t experience allergy symptoms.
If I Am Allergic to Palm Oil, What Oil Can I Substitute It For?
You can substitute palm oil for soybean, coconut, or sunflower oil. Be sure to read the label on oil products as many vegetable oils contain a mixture of oils including palm.