Peanuts are one of the most highly allergic foods. Knowing the warning signs of a peanut allergy could potentially save you or your child's life if anaphylaxis develops from a peanut allergy. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, between 1997 and 2002, peanut allergies doubled in children. Even if you notice minor signs and symptoms, you need to see a doctor because the minor symptoms may be a sign of a more serious reaction that may develop in the future.
Peanut Allergy
A peanut is not a nut, it is a legume. If you are allergic to peanuts, you have a greater risk of developing an allergy to other legumes, such as soybeans, lentils and peas. A peanut allergy is the result of your immune system making a mistake. Instead of identifying the proteins in the peanut as being safe, it mistakes it as a dangerous substance. This mistake leads to the production of certain chemicals that cause swelling, inflammation and irritation in various parts of your body. This reaction is what leads to common warning signs of a peanut allergy.
Common Warning Signs
If you have a mild to moderate allergy to peanuts, some of the initial warning signs may go unnoticed. You may develop minor stomach cramping, diarrhea, feel nauseous and have minor pain in your abdomen. Other common warning signs include wheezing, chest tightness, coughing and trouble breathing normally. Your mouth, throat, tongue or lips may become itchy or tingle. Your sinuses can become congested, leading to nasal discharge, postnasal drip, sinus pressure and stuffiness. Skin reactions can develop such as hives, eczema or general skin itching.
Concerning Warning Signs
A peanut allergy is one of the most common causes of a severe reaction, or anaphylaxis, which can result in death. This type of allergic reaction develops quickly after you consume peanuts. The warning signs that form during a severe allergic reaction include a sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, lightheadedness, constriction in your airways, swelling in your throat, a rapid but faint pulse and loss of consciousness.
Treatment
If you have a peanut allergy, avoid consuming peanuts, foods that may contain peanuts, or foods that have been manufactured in a factory that also processes peanuts. If you accidentally consume peanuts and develop common signs of an allergic reaction, take an oral antihistamine and call your doctor. If you experience a severe allergic reaction, you will need an injection of epinephrine. If you don't have epinephrine on hand, call 911 immediately.
