Allergy, Lemon

Lemons are utilised for culinary and non-culinary activities across the globe. They are primarily used for their juice, although the pulp and rind can also be used in baking and cooking. Lemon is useful as a colour preservative as well. Moreover, lemon rind oils are used to flavour dishes and beverages and make perfume.

Allergies to lemons are not very prevalent. However, if you have a lemon allergy, eating a lemon, using lemon in cooking, or having skin contact with it can all cause symptoms.

The Lemon Allergy Test determines whether a person is allergic to lemons. Lemon is a part of the citrus fruit family. Citrus allergies are uncommon; however, some people do experience them. Grapefruits, limes, and oranges may also cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to lemons. Lemon juice and oil are used to flavour various products, so people with a lemon allergy should verify the contents.

After intake or exposure, allergy symptoms might appear between a few minutes and a few hours later. Typical lemon allergy symptoms include:

• Itching
• Wheezing and coughing
• Throat tightening
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea
• Light-headedness and dizziness

While the symptoms mentioned above are present in the majority of affected people, clinical signs of a lemon allergy can occasionally be more severe. Patients in these situations experience dermatological disorders, including hives or dermatitis. Additionally, medical professionals have noted facial oedema and breathing problems in some situations.

In rare cases, a lemon allergy can cause anaphylactic shock. The situation could be fatal if the affected person does not receive prompt medical care. During the allergy episodes, the blood IgE level rises consequently. The Lemon Allergy Test helps detect the allergen and measures the immunoglobulin levels. It is a simple blood test that takes just five minutes. The lab professional uses a syringe to inject blood after cleaning the puncture area. They again disinfect the puncture site after collecting the sample to prevent any superficial infections.

Flow cytometry is the technique used to measure the IgE level. Since it thoroughly analyses all cell-based factors, this approach is effective for a Lemon Allergy Test.

A Lemon Allergy Test involves the examination of various cells to compile precise statistical information regarding the allergy. This enables the doctor to identify the allergy, confirm it, and look for any patterns.

A Lemon Allergy Test is available at Apollo 24|7 to effectively identify allergic reactions to lemon. Below are a few additional areas where an allergy test may be useful:

• Estimating how severe an allergic reaction may be 
• Ascertaining the necessary remedies

In addition, allergic reactions identified in a Lemon Allergy Test can assist medical professionals in figuring out a patient's cross-reactive sensitivity.
 

Medically reviewed by Dr Jatin Ahuja, Infectious Diseases, Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, South Delhi.