Some individuals can experience an allergic reaction to a certain type of food. The symptoms are usually mild but can be severe in others, even life-threatening. It is important to note that blueberries are comprised of salicylates that occur naturally in plants. Due to the high salicylate content in blueberries, an individual can develop sensitivity to this compound. If the individual eats blueberries and experience the symptoms of an allergic response, a doctor must be consulted so that appropriate treatment can be started. By enrolling in a first aid course, you will learn the appropriate measures to take when dealing with an allergic reaction.
Urticaria
Urticaria is typically suggestive of an allergy to salicylate. These manifest on the skin as transitory, itchy wheals or red-colored papules called as hives. Essentially, the individual hive lesions can last for 24 hours and do not leave behind any mark of their presence. Constant consumption of blueberries or other similar fruits that contain salicylate can lead to chronic urticaria that is characterized by persistent hive rashes that can last for more than six weeks. There are other causes of urticaria and if the hives do not vanish for an extended period, it is best to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
Angioedema
It is a known fact that angioedema is a common reaction to a food allergy that involves the swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat. Once an individual is exposed to blueberries through consumption, the body generates immunoglobulin antibodies along with histamines into the body, resulting to the distinctive swollen tissue and symptoms.
Take note that the welts are typically painful and may or may not itch. If the swelling is deeper, it can cause more pain. Angioedema can disappear after a few hours or after providing over-the-counter antihistamines or anti-inflammatory drugs. In case other conditions are present, angioedema can appear and eating blueberries might not be the cause. If the condition persists or worsens, it is best to consult a doctor.
What happens during anaphylaxis?
If an individual experiences a severe allergic response to blueberries, anaphylaxis can manifest that triggers the narrowing of the airways, abrupt drop in the blood pressure, swelling of the throat and rapid heart rate. In some cases, other symptoms can manifest such as lightheadedness, dizziness and loss of consciousness. If the condition is left untreated, it can progress to coma and even death.
Always remember that anaphylaxis is a dangerous condition and requires immediate medical attention. Once swelling in the throat occurs, do not wait for the symptoms to worsen since it can eventually cut off the airway. If an EpiPen is available, you have to administer a shot to help counteract the symptoms and then bring the individual to the emergency department at the nearest hospital for assessment and further medical care.