Peanut allergies are the most common cause of death due to food and can be a lifelong condition. They affect 2 percent of the population and may surface as a minor irritation, or life threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Only a few peanuts are needed to trigger the allergic reaction, which tends to get worse over time. The allergy seems to be more common in toddlers and children, and although some outgrow the allergy, recurrence may occur.
Exposure
A peanut allergy surfaces when the immune system views the peanut as an intruder and mounts an allergic reaction to get rid of it. Exposure to peanuts can occur directly whereby peanuts or foods containing peanuts are ingested. Skin contact may also elicit an allergic response. Cross-contamination occurs when peanuts are introduced into food through food processing equipment. There may be peanut residue on a machine that was not cleaned properly, and this can introduce peanuts into foods. Inhalation of peanut products may also produce a reaction. This occurs with peanut oil spray or peanut flour.
Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms range from mild to severe and occur within minutes of exposure. They include itching and tingling around the mouth and throat; tightening of the chest; shortness of breath; runny or stuffy nose; skin reactions with redness; or swelling and stomach problems like diarrhea, cramps, bloating, nausea or vomiting.
Anaphylaxis symptoms include swelling of the throat and constriction of the airways, rapid pulse, shock (severe drop in blood pressure), dizziness or loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis consists of a description of symptoms, medical exam and a food diary to help eliminate other problems. An elimination diet may be needed with different types of food to help narrow down the specific food. The diets consist of eliminating each food for one to two weeks, then introducing the foods back into the diet to observe for any reaction. Skin tests are also common and consist of placing small amounts of food on the skin of the back or forearm and pricking it with a needle. If there is an allergy to any food, the skin will bubble up in the area of the prick. A blood test may also be done to test for allergy antibodies called Immunoglobulin E. The blood is tested against different foods to look for a reaction.
Treatment
For a minor allergic reaction, over-the-counter antihistamines may be used to alleviate symptoms. Severe allergic reactions may require an epinephrine injection and immediate medical assistance. Portable epinephrine injections called autoinjectors (EpiPen, EpiPen Jr or Twinject) are available for injecting epinephrine into the thigh when needed. Epinephrine injection kits should be carried at all times and kept up to date. There should always be a backup injector in case the primary dose has passed its shelf life time.
Prevention
The best prevention is to be aware of what foods contain peanuts and know what to do if any are consumed. Ground peanuts are found in many foods and although warnings may be posted, it is always safer to read all ingredients.
