What Is Cross Reactivity?
Cross reactivity occurs when your immune system mistakes one substance for another because they share similar protein structures. Essentially, your body's defense system gets confused and treats a harmless food protein as if it were the same allergen that originally triggered your sensitivity.
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Think of it like a case of mistaken identity. Your immune system has created antibodies to fight a specific protein structure, but when it encounters a different substance with a similar molecular "fingerprint," it launches the same defensive response. This explains why someone allergic to birch pollen might also react to apples, or why a person with a dust mite allergy could have problems with shellfish.

Common Cross Reactive Patterns
Understanding these patterns can help you anticipate potential reactions and work with your allergist to develop a comprehensive management plan.

Pollen-Food Syndrome (Oral Allergy Syndrome)
This is one of the most common forms of cross reactivity, affecting up to 70% of people with certain pollen allergies. The reactions typically cause mild symptoms in the mouth and throat, including tingling, itching, or swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat.

Birch Pollen Cross Reactions: People allergic to birch pollen may react to apples, pears, cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, kiwi, carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts.

Ragweed Pollen Cross Reactions: Those sensitive to ragweed might experience reactions to melons (cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew), bananas, zucchini, cucumber, and sunflower seeds.

Grass Pollen Cross Reactions: Grass pollen allergies can cross react with tomatoes, potatoes, kiwi, melons, oranges, and wheat.

Latex-Fruit Syndrome
Approximately 30-50% of people with latex allergies also react to certain fruits. This cross reactivity occurs because latex and these fruits contain similar proteins called chitinases.

Common cross reactive foods include bananas, avocados, kiwi, papaya, chestnuts, and passion fruit. Healthcare workers and others frequently exposed to latex products should be particularly aware of this connection.

Shellfish and Dust Mites
The protein tropomyosin found in dust mites is very similar to proteins in shellfish and other arthropods. This can create cross reactivity between dust mite allergies and reactions to shrimp, lobster, crab, and sometimes even insects used as food in certain cultures.

Bird-Egg Syndrome
Some people who are allergic to bird feathers or droppings may also react to chicken eggs. This occurs because similar proteins are found in bird feathers, serum, and egg yolks.
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Factors That Influence Cross Reactivity
Several factors can affect whether and how severely cross reactive responses occur:

Food Processing and Preparation: Heat, cooking, and processing can break down or alter the proteins responsible for cross reactivity. Many people with pollen-food syndrome can tolerate cooked versions of trigger foods even when raw versions cause reactions. For example, someone who reacts to raw apples might be fine with apple pie or applesauce.
Seasonal Variations: Cross reactive food allergies often worsen during peak pollen seasons when your immune system is already on high alert. You might notice that foods you can usually tolerate become problematic during spring or fall.
Individual Sensitivity Levels: The severity of cross reactions varies greatly between individuals. Some people experience only mild oral symptoms, while others may have more significant reactions requiring medical attention.
Protein Concentration: The amount of cross reactive protein in different varieties of the same food can vary. Some apple varieties might cause stronger reactions than others due to different protein concentrations.
Managing Cross Reactive AllergiesSuccessfully managing cross reactivity requires a comprehensive approach developed with your healthcare provider.
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Accurate Diagnosis: Work with a board-certified allergist to identify your specific triggers through detailed testing. Skin prick tests, blood tests, and sometimes oral food challenges can help map your particular pattern of cross reactivity.
Avoidance Strategies: Once you understand your cross reactive patterns, you can make informed decisions about which foods to avoid completely and which might be tolerable when cooked or processed.
Emergency Preparedness: While many cross reactive responses are mild, some can be severe. Always carry antihistamines as recommended by your doctor, and know when you might need an epinephrine auto-injector.
Seasonal Adjustments: Consider avoiding known cross reactive foods during peak pollen seasons when your overall allergy burden is highest. You might find you can tolerate these foods better during off-seasons.

Arizona is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and abundant sunshine. However, for many residents, it's also a hotbed for allergies. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms like sneezing, itching, congestion, or watery eyes, you might be wondering, "Are my symptoms related to allergies in Arizona?" The answer is often a resounding yes, and understanding why and getting tested is vital for your well-being.


Why Arizona is an Allergy Hotspot

Many people assume that deserts are allergy-free zones, but Arizona presents a unique set of challenges:

• Desert Flora: While not lush with traditional greenery, the desert is home to various plants like Mesquite, Palo Verde, Ragweed, and Bermuda Grass, all of which produce pollen that can trigger allergic reactions.
• Year-Round Pollen: Unlike other regions with distinct allergy seasons, Arizona's mild climate often means year-round pollen exposure, making it difficult for allergy sufferers to find relief.
• Dust Mites and Mold: Indoors, dust mites thrive in humid environments, and mold can be an issue, especially in areas with evaporative coolers or after monsoon rains.
• Outdoor Activities: Arizonans love the outdoors. This means more exposure to airborne allergens during hiking, gardening, or simply enjoying a patio.

Common Allergy Symptoms to Watch For

Allergy symptoms can often mimic those of a common cold or flu, making self-diagnosis difficult. Look out for these signs:

• Respiratory: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath.
• Ocular: Itchy, watery, or red eyes.
• Skin: Rashes, hives, eczema, or general itchiness.
• Other: Fatigue, headaches, or even difficulty concentrating.

If these symptoms persist for more than a week or two, or if they recur seasonally, it's a strong indicator that allergies might be the culprit.


Why Getting Allergy Tested is Crucial

You might be tempted to just manage your symptoms with over-the-counter medications, but getting professionally allergy tested offers significant benefits:

1. Accurate Identification of Triggers: This is perhaps the most important reason. Without knowing exactly whatyou're allergic to, you're essentially fighting a blind battle. Allergy testing, often through skin prick tests or blood tests, pinpoints the specific allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, etc.) causing your reaction.
2. Targeted Treatment Plans: Once your triggers are identified, a healthcare professional can develop a personalized and effective treatment plan
3. Improved Quality of Life: Chronic allergy symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, affecting sleep, work productivity, and enjoyment of activities. Accurate diagnosis and treatment can lead to:
   • Better Sleep: Less nighttime congestion and coughing.
   • Increased Energy: Reduced fatigue from constant allergic reactions.
   • Enhanced Outdoor Enjoyment: The ability to partake in Arizona's outdoor activities with fewer symptoms.
   • Reduced Risk of Complications: Untreated allergies can sometimes lead to chronic sinusitis, ear infections, or exacerbate asthma.

Don't Guess, Get Tested!

Living with undiagnosed allergies in Arizona means unnecessarily suffering through symptoms that can be managed or even eliminated. Don't let uncertainty dictate your health. If you suspect your symptoms are allergy-related, take the proactive step and schedule an allergy test today at AFC Med, located in Phoenix, Tempe & Surprise. It's the key to understanding your body, taking control of your health, and fully enjoying all that Arizona has to offer.

Gluten allergy is an umbrella term that encompasses several distinct conditions related to gluten intolerance. Understanding the different types of gluten sensitivity is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Celiac Disease:
The Most Severe Gluten AllergyCeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder where gluten consumption triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This gluten allergy affects approximately 1% of the population and requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet for life.

Common celiac disease symptoms include:

• Chronic digestive issues and abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Persistent fatigue and brain fog
• Skin rashes and dermatitis herpetiformis
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Bone density loss

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)
​Non-celiac gluten sensitivity represents a milder form of gluten intolerance where individuals experience gluten allergy symptoms without the intestinal damage seen in celiac disease. NCGS affects an estimated 6% of the population and can significantly impact quality of life.

Wheat Allergy vs Gluten Allergy
Wheat allergy differs from gluten sensitivity as it's an allergic reaction specifically to wheat proteins, not just gluten. This condition can cause immediate allergic reactions including hives, difficulty breathing, and digestive distress.

Gluten Allergy Symptoms: Recognizing the Signs
Gluten sensitivity symptoms vary widely among individuals, making diagnosis challenging. Understanding common gluten intolerance symptoms can help you determine if gluten testing is necessary.
Digestive Gluten Allergy Symptoms

• Bloating and gas after eating gluten-containing foods
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Acid reflux and heartburn

Non-Digestive Gluten Sensitivity Signs

• Chronic fatigue and low energy levels
• Headaches and migraines
• Joint pain and muscle aches
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and irritability
• Skin problems and eczema

Gluten Testing Options: Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
Proper gluten testing is essential for determining whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or another condition entirely. Several gluten allergy tests are available to help healthcare providers make an accurate diagnosis.

Foods to Include During Gluten Testing Preparation

• Wheat bread and pasta
• Barley-containing foods
• Rye products
• Beer and malt beverages
• Processed foods containing gluten

Gluten-Free Diet: Managing Life After Positive Testing
If gluten testing confirms celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, adopting a strict gluten-free lifestyle becomes essential for symptom management and long-term health.
Essential Gluten-Free Foods

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Lean meats and fish
• Rice and quinoa
• Certified gluten-free grains
• Dairy products (if tolerated)

Hidden Sources of Gluten to Avoid

• Soy sauce and marinades
• Processed meats
• Salad dressings and condiments
• Medications and supplements
• Cross-contaminated oats

When to Seek Professional Help for Gluten TestingIf you experience persistent gluten allergy symptoms that interfere with daily life, consult a healthcare provider at AFC Med about appropriate gluten testing options. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

​Living Successfully with Gluten Sensitivity
Managing gluten allergies requires ongoing education, careful food selection, and strong support systems. Many individuals with gluten sensitivity find that symptoms improve dramatically once they eliminate gluten from their diets and learn to navigate gluten-free living.
Understanding gluten allergies, recognizing gluten sensitivity symptoms, and pursuing appropriate gluten testing are crucial steps toward better health. With proper diagnosis and dietary management, individuals with gluten intolerance can lead healthy, fulfilling lives while avoiding the foods that trigger their symptoms.
Remember that gluten testing should always be conducted under medical supervision, and any significant dietary changes should be discussed with healthcare professionals familiar with gluten-related disorders.

Before diving into testing options, it's important to understand the difference between food allergies and food sensitivities. Food allergies involve an immune system response that can range from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Food sensitivities, while less severe, can still significantly impact your quality of life with symptoms like bloating, headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues.
Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy – accounting for about 90% of all food allergic reactions. However, any food has the potential to trigger an allergic or sensitivity response.

Skin Prick Testing
The gold standard for food allergy testing, skin prick tests provide rapid results in about 15-20 minutes. During this test, small amounts of suspected allergens are introduced to the skin through tiny pricks. If you're allergic, a small raised bump will appear at the test site. This method is highly accurate for immediate allergic reactions and can test for multiple allergens simultaneously.

Blood Testing (Specific IgE)
For patients who cannot undergo skin testing due to severe eczema, certain medications, or other factors, blood tests measure specific IgE antibodies in your bloodstream. While results take longer than skin tests, blood testing can be particularly useful for detecting allergies to foods you haven't been exposed to recently.

Oral Food Challenge
Considered the most definitive test for food allergies, oral food challenges are conducted under strict medical supervision at our clinics. Patients consume increasing amounts of a suspected allergen while being closely monitored for reactions. This test is typically reserved for cases where other testing methods have been inconclusive.

Food Sensitivity Testing
Beyond traditional allergy testing, AFC Allergy & Med offers comprehensive food sensitivity panels that can identify delayed reactions to foods. These tests help uncover hidden triggers that might be causing chronic symptoms like digestive issues, skin problems, or fatigue.

Personalized Elimination Diets
Based on your test results, our specialists create customized elimination diets that remove problematic foods while ensuring proper nutrition. We provide detailed guidance on reading food labels, finding safe alternatives, and maintaining a balanced diet.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
For select patients with food allergies, we offer oral immunotherapy – a groundbreaking treatment that gradually introduces tiny amounts of allergens to build tolerance over time. This treatment has shown remarkable success in reducing the severity of allergic reactions and improving quality of life.

Emergency Action Plans
Every patient receives a personalized emergency action plan detailing how to recognize and respond to allergic reactions. We ensure you and your family members understand proper use of epinephrine auto-injectors and when to seek emergency medical care.

Nutritional Counseling
​Managing food allergies often requires significant dietary changes. Our registered dietitians work with patients to develop meal plans that avoid trigger foods while maintaining optimal nutrition, especially important for growing children and adults with multiple food allergies.

Desert Expertise
Living in Arizona presents unique challenges for allergy sufferers. Our specialists understand how the desert climate and lifestyle factors can impact food allergies and sensitivities, providing treatment plans tailored to Valley living.

Three Convenient Locations
With clinics in Phoenix, Tempe, and Surprise, quality food allergy care is never far away. Each location offers the same high standard of care with state-of-the-art testing equipment and experienced allergists.

Comprehensive Care
From initial testing through ongoing management, we provide complete food allergy care under one roof. Our team includes board-certified allergists, registered nurses, and nutritional specialists working together for your health.

Family-Focused Approach
​Food allergies affect the entire family. We provide education and support for parents, caregivers, and patients of all ages, including school action plans and workplace accommodation guidance.

Consider food allergy testing if you experience:

• Immediate reactions after eating specific foods (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Chronic digestive issues that improve when avoiding certain foods
• Unexplained skin problems or eczema flares
• Recurring headaches or fatigue after meals
• Family history of food allergies
• Previous mild reactions that seem to be worsening

Taking the Next Step
Don't let food allergies control your life. The first step toward answers is comprehensive testing with experienced professionals who understand the complexities of food allergies and sensitivities.

AFC Allergy & Med makes it easy to get started with same-day appointments available and most insurance plans accepted. Our patient coordinators will work with you to schedule testing at whichever location – Phoenix, Tempe, or Surprise – is most convenient for your family.

Ready to discover what's been causing your food reactions? Contact AFC Allergy & Med today to schedule your comprehensive food allergy evaluation. Your journey toward eating with confidence starts with a simple phone call.

Contact AFC Allergy & Med:

• Phoenix Location: 1277 E Missouri Ave Ste 101A Phoenix, Arizona 85014
• Tempe Location:2145 E Warner Rd, Ste 104 Tempe, AZ 85284
• Surprise Location:14239 W Bell Rd UNIT 108 Surprise, AZ 85374
• Online: AFCMed.com

Don't wait another day to get the answers you deserve. Your health and peace of mind are worth it.