What is Saliva Allergy?

Saliva allergy isn't a single, clearly defined condition like a peanut allergy. Instead, the term encompasses several related phenomena:

Saliva can act as a carrier of allergens, or contain allergens itself. This means that reactions attributed to "saliva allergy" could actually stem from other sources present in the saliva:

• Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS): This is an allergic reaction to proteins in certain fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These proteins are similar to proteins found in pollen, leading to cross-reactivity. OAS typically causes itching in the mouth and throat, but rarely severe reactions. [Source: Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is an allergic reaction to certain foods, including fruits, vegetables and nuts. It most often happens if you have an allergy to trees, grass or other pollens (cross-reactivity). OAS makes your lips, mouth and throat itchy but rarely causes severe reactions.]

• Pet Allergies: Cat and dog saliva contain allergens that cause allergic reactions in many people. These allergens are often proteins found in the pet's saliva, skin, and dander. A person might experience symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes upon contact with pet saliva. [Source: Dog saliva is an allergen source for improved diagnostics of dog allergy. The IgE-binding protein profile of saliva from different...; Allergies to cats are primarily caused by a single protein which is found on the skin and in the saliva. There are at...]

• Saliva as a Vector: Saliva can transfer allergens from food or other sources to a person's mouth or skin. A person allergic to a specific food might experience an allergic reaction even with minimal direct contact if saliva containing traces of the allergen touches their skin or mouth.

Saliva and Other Allergic Conditions

Some research suggests a link between saliva and the development or manifestation of allergies:

• Increased Salivary Flow in Allergic Rhinitis: Studies show a correlation between allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and increased salivary flow rate. [Source: In this pilot study, patients diagnosed with allergy presented a significant difference in salivary flow rate compared to healthy controls.]
• Saliva Contact in Infancy and Allergy Development: Research explores the relationship between early saliva contact (e.g., through shared utensils or parental pacifier cleaning) and the later development of allergies. Some findings suggest that early saliva exposure may decrease the risk of certain allergies, such as eczema. [Source: Saliva contact via shared eating utensils or parental sucking of pacifiers during infancy may reduce the risk of allergy development, especially eczema and...]
• Salivary Cortisol and Allergies: Studies examine the association between salivary cortisol levels (a stress hormone) in infancy and allergic sensitization and symptoms, suggesting a potential link between stress and allergy development. [Source: The association between salivary cortisol levels in infancy and allergic sensitization and allergic symptoms suggests a role of an altered...]

Important Note: Saliva Tests for Allergies

Hair and saliva tests are not reliable for diagnosing allergies. Proper allergy testing should be conducted by a healthcare professional. [Source: Hair and saliva testing should not be used to diagnose allergies and is not a substitute for veterinary-directed allergy evaluation and...]