Ragweed isn't the only allergen that causes hay fever. Watermelon, bananas, honeydew, and cantaloupe can cause the same symptoms in children with hay fever. Most often, children with hay fever who eat one of these fruits complain of lip, mouth, or throat itching. Another common cross-reactivity is birch-tree pollen with apples, pears, walnuts, and almonds.
If your child experiences lip, mouth, or throat itching, he should immediately stop eating the fruit or nut. If the symptoms are worse than itching - trouble breathing, difficulty swallowing, or a change in his voice - then he needs immediate medical attention.
Cooking fruits that cause allergic reactions make them safe for children with hayfever or other allergies.
Parents, 11/06
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