Severe abdominal cramps after eating nuts are a symptom of a nut allergy. About 1.8 million Americans suffer from a nut allergy, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. Common nuts that cause an allergic reaction include hazelnuts, pine nuts, almonds and walnuts. An allergic reaction to nuts can cause a serious allergic reaction that could lead to death, if not treated promptly. If you experience severe abdominal cramps after eating nuts, talk with your doctor about further testing and treatment options.
Nut Allergy
A nut allergy is the result of a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in common tree nuts. When you eat nuts, your immune system misfires and begins a chemical reaction to defend itself, according to KidsHealth. The immune system fails to identify the nut proteins as a safe substance and therefore begins to produce antibodies to protect the body. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies trigger mast cells in the body to generate histamine, a chemical that aids the immune system in defending the body. Histamine causes inflammation and irritation in soft tissue throughout the body.
Cramping
A common symptom of a nut allergy is a digestive issue. As histamine levels increase in the gastrointestinal tract, the lining of the intestines begin to swell and become irritated. This leads to digestive complications, such as cramping, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea, according to KidsHealth. These symptoms will not subside until the nut proteins are removed from the body.
Other Symptoms
If the abdominal cramping is the result of a nut allergy, you will experience other symptoms associated with a food allergy. MayoClinic.com states that common food allergy symptoms include skin rashes, rhinitis and asthma. You may develop hives or eczema within minutes after eating nuts. Rhinitis symptoms include a runny nose, stuffy nose, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, watery eyes and throat irritation. After eating nuts, you may experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Treatment
You cannot treat the cramping from a nut allergy with medication. The body needs to expel the nut proteins naturally for relief. Other nut allergy symptoms may be alleviated by taking an oral antihistamine and using over-the-counter hydrocortisone lotions.
Avoidance
The Food Allergy Initiative states that the FDA requires all food manufactures to disclose on the label clearly if the food product contains nuts. Read all food labels and be sure of what you are eating. The most effective way to prevent severe abdominal cramping from nuts is to avoid consuming them.
