Watermelon allergy: Symptoms and foods to avoid

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Watermelon is a delicious and nutritious food. However, it is unfortunate if you have a watermelon allergy. This article helps provide you with the information you need in case you have a watermelon allergy.

1. What you need to know about watermelon allergy

Although rare, a watermelon allergy can still occur. Watermelon is considered by many to be one of the best summer treats. A staple in picnics and cooking, this fruit is often used to flavor juices, yogurts and candies.
The symptoms of a watermelon allergy are similar to those of other food allergies. An estimated 4 to 6 percent of children and 4 percent of adults have food allergies.
Although most cases of food allergies develop in childhood, they can also occur later in life. You can be allergic to watermelon even if you have had no problems eating it for many years.

2. Watermelon allergy symptoms

Symptoms of a watermelon allergy are often similar to those of other food allergies. These include:
Hives Itching or itching of lips, tongue or throat Dry cough Abdominal pain or cramps Vomiting Diarrhea Most people with a watermelon allergy will experience symptoms within minutes of Found this fruit. In some cases, hours can pass before noticeable symptoms appear.
Mild allergic reactions can often be treated with an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
If this is the first time you experience allergy symptoms after eating watermelon, see your doctor. They can confirm your allergy through testing. They will also explain how to handle symptoms in the future.
Severe watermelon allergy can lead to anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
Shortness of breath Wheezing Shortness of breath Swelling of throat Swollen tongue Difficulty swallowing Swelling Dizziness Dizziness Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting Low blood pressure (shock) Although anaphylaxis usually does not occur with a watermelon allergy, but not impossible. You should seek immediate medical attention if you begin to experience any of the symptoms of anaphylaxis.
If you have an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), give the injection while help arrives. If you are unable to self-medicate, signal for help, if possible.

3. What to do if you are allergic to watermelon

If you are experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical attention. These symptoms usually occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to the allergen. If left untreated, anaphylaxis can be life-threatening.
If you are with someone who is experiencing anaphylaxis you should:
Call your local emergency services right away. Check to see if they have an epinephrine (epipen) auto-injector. If needed, help them give the injection. When in doubt, epinephrine injection is always safer than no injection in potentially life-saving situations. Stay calm and do what you can to help calm them down. Support them from any restrictive clothing, such as tight coats. This will help them breathe easier. Help them lie flat on their back. Elevate their feet about 12 inches and cover with a jacket or blanket. If the child begins to vomit, help him lie on his side. Take care not to raise their head, especially if they have trouble breathing. Be prepared to perform CPR, if necessary. Avoid giving them anything to eat or drink, or other medications. If this is your first allergic reaction to watermelon and you don't already have an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), your doctor will prescribe it. You should carry it with you at all times in case of an emergency. If possible, try to make sure you always have two EpiPens. After an initial anaphylactic event, up to 20% of individuals may experience delayed response.

4. Foods to Avoid

If you think you have a watermelon allergy, see your doctor. They can confirm if you have a watermelon allergy or something else.
If your doctor confirms that you have a watermelon allergy, it is important to remove all traces of the allergen from your diet. This is the only way to prevent an allergic reaction.
People with a watermelon allergy should also avoid contact with any other melons in the cucurbit family. This includes:
Honeydew Cucumbers You should also avoid:
Bananas Pumpkin Vegetables Celery Oranges Papayas Peach Fruit Avocado Kiwi Tomato These foods can cause a similar allergic reaction . Ragweed pollen, which is common during the summer months, can also be a problem.
If you are eating out, confirm that your dish does not contain any known or potential allergens. And if you're not sure if watermelon is in the drink or food you're given, ask. You should read food labels carefully before using.
Consult with your doctor on how to handle accidental allergen exposure. An antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), may be enough to limit your symptoms, or an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) may be necessary.

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Reference source: healthline.com