What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Cucumber Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure the IgE antibody levels in the blood and to help detect an allergy to cucumbers. Cucumbers are long, cylindrical, green-skinned fruit of the Cucurbitaceae (Gourd) family, with origins in India. Other plants in the Gourd family include cucumber, muskmelons, pumpkins, zucchini, and squash. Cucumbers are a popular fruit crop cultivated globally, with countries like China, India, Britain, Turkey, Iraq, and Venezuela as the leading producers. Because cucumbers grow year-round, they can be used for preservation, pickled, and consumed fresh. In addition, cucumbers are a good source of vitamins A & C, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Due to their many health benefits and mild and refreshing taste, cucumbers are the main ingredient in several foods and products.
There are two types of cucumber allergies. First is an oral allergy caused by individuals with a pollen allergy eating raw fruits or vegetables. If an individual has an allergy to birch pollen, it is highly possible to have an oral allergy to cucumbers. Fruits and vegetables growing close to pollen can cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to pollen. The second allergy is due to cross-reactivity with latex, otherwise known as latex-fruit syndrome. An individual with a latex allergy is more likely to react to cucumbers. This cross-reactivity means that both cucumbers and latex contain similar proteins.
What foods or products should I avoid if I am allergic to cucumbers?
Cucumbers are part of a large group of flowering vine plants known as the Cucurbitaceae family. Since cucumbers are regularly used in different dishes and skincare products, allergic individuals should pay close attention to the foods and products that contain cucumbers and other plants from the Lauraceae family. Some foods or products that can cause cucumber allergy symptoms may include:
- Cinnamon
- Bay leaves
- Sassafras
- Pumpkin and pumpkin seeds
- Muskmelon
- Watermelon
- Zucchini
- Celery
- Carrots
- Kiwis
- Papayas
- Bananas
- Chestnuts
- Salads or salad dressings
- Smoothies
- Flavored waters
- Face masks
- Skincare products
- Body washes and other hygiene products (deodorants)
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Cosmetics and perfumes
What causes an allergy to cucumbers?
An allergy to cucumbers is triggered by a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances (proteins) as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to combat these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
When should I order a Cucumber Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a cucumber allergy. Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can occur within minutes to a few hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a cucumber allergy may include one or more of the following:
- Hives or rash
- Itching
- Headache
- Coughing or wheezing
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Tingling sensation in the mouth
- Trouble breathing
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur in some cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Rapid or increased pulse
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
