Can Apple Cause Cough?
August 24, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, apples can sometimes cause or exacerbate coughing in certain individuals, although this reaction is relatively uncommon.
One potential reason for this is that some people might have a sensitivity or allergy to certain proteins found in apples. This condition is known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS) or pollen-food syndrome. OAS occurs when the proteins in certain fruits and vegetables are structurally similar to pollen proteins. If you’re allergic to specific pollens, such as birch pollen, your body might react to these proteins by triggering symptoms like itching or tingling in the mouth, throat irritation, and even coughing.
Cooking or heating the apple can sometimes reduce the allergenic proteins and make the fruit less likely to cause a reaction.
However, it’s important to note that while some people might experience coughing or other mild symptoms after consuming apples due to OAS, this is not the case for the majority of individuals. Most people can enjoy apples without any issues. If you consistently experience coughing or other adverse reactions after consuming apples, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate guidance.