What condition, often suffered by hay fever sufferers, may lead to Oral Allergy Syndrome after eating raw cucumber?
Answer
Allergic rhinitis
Individuals who suffer from hay fever, clinically known as allergic rhinitis, are susceptible to experiencing Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) when they consume raw cucumber. This reaction occurs because the protein structures present in the cucumber are similar enough to the proteins found in pollen that the immune system confuses them. This similarity triggers a cross-reactive allergic response in the mouth and throat area. This cross-reactivity is not limited just to cucumbers; it can also be observed with other fruits and vegetables that share similar protein structures, such as banana, kiwi, and melon, as well as latex.

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