An allergy to peanut butter can cause a runny nose, along with other symptoms. A peanut allergy is concerning because it is one of the most common food-related allergens that can lead to anaphylactic shock, according to KidsHealth.org. A runny nose is considered a mild symptom and should be evaluated by a physician for proper diagnosis. If the only symptom you have is a runny nose, it is most likely unrelated to an allergic reaction to peanut butter.
Peanut Allergy
A peanut allergy is most common among young children. If you have a peanut allergy, your immune system is hypersensitive to the proteins in peanuts. When you eat peanut butter, your body mistakes the peanut proteins as harmful and produces a defense system to ward them off. This leads to a chemical reaction in the body that releases high levels of histamine, the chemical responsible for most allergy symptoms.
Runny Nose
The increased levels of histamine in the nasal passages can lead to common allergic rhinitis symptoms. These symptoms include a runny nose, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, sinus pressure, watery eyes, throat irritation and an itch on the roof of the mouth, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The nose should produce a discharge that is thin and clear in color; if it is thick and a deep yellowish-green, it may be a sign of a sinus infection.
Other Symptoms
An allergic reaction to eating peanut butter will cause other symptoms aside from just a runny nose. Other symptoms that are common with a peanut allergy include cardiovascular, respiratory, skin or gastrointestinal complications, according to KidsHealth.org. These complications will lead to light-headedness, shortness of breath, wheezing, hives, eczema, general itching, vomiting, cramping and diarrhea.
Treatment
The best treatment for any food allergy is to avoid the allergen. A runny nose from a peanut butter allergy can be treated by taking an oral antihistamine. An oral antihistamine will block the body's ability to create histamine, which is causing the runny nose. An antihistamine will also reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, clear up watery eyes and alleviate the itch in the throat.
Warning
If you experience symptoms associated with anaphylactic shock, call 911 immediately. Common symptoms of anaphylactic shock include hives, shortness of breath, mental confusion, light-headedness, a drop in blood pressure and pale-colored skin.
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