Melon is a delicious and fragrant product that is deservedly appreciated by many, and is also a rich source of vitamins and other nutrients. But, like a significant amount of other vegetables and fruits, in addition to tasty and healthy food, melon can become and cause allergic reactions.
Can a melon cause allergies?
Melon does not belong to the most famous food allergens like milk, peanuts, chocolate or citrus, so the question often arises: can there be an allergy at all? The answer to this question is positive.
Melon contains a number of certain biologically active substances (serotonin), which can provoke allergic reactions, although they are rarely found on this product.
In addition, there may be cases of cross-allergy when a response to one factor causes susceptibility to other substances or products.
So, with allergy to ragweed (genus of plants), the same reaction can be observed to:
sunflower and its products (oil, halva);- melon;
- bananas;
- spinach;
- beets;
- parsley;
- dill.
Symptoms of melon allergy
The classic allergy symptoms in response to a melon are quite rare, although they are possible.
The most common are:
- numbness and tingling of the lips and tongue;
- sore throat;
- headache or dizziness;
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- urticaria, itching and redness of the skin (observed in the face and is not found in every case).
Strong reactions (choking, anaphylactic shock , etc.) on the melon are not observed, since it refers to the relatively weak allergens.
Treatment of melon allergy
In the first place, if there is a suspicion of allergy, it is worthwhile to refrain from eating melons, and if the allergy has already manifested itself, then products with possible cross-activity that can worsen the condition should be avoided before symptoms are eliminated.
Since the use of melon can cause indigestion, it is recommended to use sorbents for faster removal of potentially harmful substances with such an allergy:
- Activated carbon;
- Sorbeks;
- Enterosgel;
- Antosil;
- Smectu;
- Filter.
Also, in the presence of rashes or other skin reactions, the administration of antihistamines is indicated:
- Telfast;
- Claritin;
- Zirteka .
It is possible to use other drugs, preferably the last generations, which do not have a hypnotic and sedative effect. Antihistamines are taken either once, or, with a pronounced reaction, by a course that lasts another 2-3 days after the disappearance of the symptoms.