Watermelon Allergy
Although it is not very common, watermelon allergy is a type of food allergy that can be encountered in daily life. Watermelon is consumed as one of the most preferred and delicious fruits in the summer months. Watermelon is sometimes used to sweeten yogurt, candy, juice or cold drinks.
The symptoms of watermelon allergy are similar to other food allergies. Even if some food allergies develop in childhood, they may become visible as you get older. An individual who has no problem consuming watermelon for years may exhibit allergic reactions to watermelon later in life.
What are the symptoms of watermelon allergy?
Symptoms of watermelon allergy are similar to other food allergy symptoms. The most common symptoms are; vomiting, cough, itching in the lips, tongue or throat, tingling, hives, stomach pain or cramps. In many individuals with watermelon allergy, allergic reactions occur within a few minutes of ingesting watermelon.
However, in some cases, more pronounced reactions may occur; in some cases, it may take hours for allergic symptoms to become visible. Allergic reactions that are not severe can be treated with mild antihistamines with the advice of a specialist. If allergic symptoms appear for the first time after consuming watermelon, you should definitely be examined by an allergist.
In this way, with allergy tests, it becomes clear whether the individual has an allergy or not, and to what degree. It is worth noting that a severe watermelon allergy can cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Some symptoms of anaphylaxis; Difficulty swallowing, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, swelling of the tongue, face and throat, wheezing, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. Although anaphylaxis does not typically occur with watermelon allergies, it is not unusual.
If a person begins to experience any symptoms of anaphylaxis, they should seek medical attention immediately.
What Should You Do If You Are Allergic to Watermelon?
If anaphylaxis symptoms occur in the event of a watermelon allergy, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis typically appear within seconds or minutes after exposure to an allergen. If left untreated, anaphylaxis can reach life-threatening levels.
Foods to Avoid in Watermelon Allergy
Individuals with a watermelon allergy should also avoid contact with other melons in the squash family. These; Sugar melon, melon and cucumber, kiwi, banana, celery, pumpkin, avocado, peach, orange and papaya. The foods listed have the potential to trigger a similar allergic reaction. Ragweed Pollen, which is commonly seen in the summer, can also trigger a similar allergic reaction. If individuals are eating out, it is necessary to ensure that the ordered meal does not contain any allergens.
At this point, gaining the habit of reading food labels is a critical point in dealing with food allergies.
