Knowing the warning signs for a peanut allergy is essential if you or someone you know is allergic to peanuts. Peanuts are one of the most common food allergy foods; severe adverse reactions to peanuts could lead to serious complications and even death. Consuming even a small amount of peanuts or peanut byproducts can trigger an allergic reaction. Some people can develop an allergy from inhaling peanuts flour that is airborne. A peanut allergy needs to be diagnosed by your doctor.
Cause
Food allergies are the result of the immune system mistaking proteins in the food for a dangerous substance. Although peanut proteins are safe for human consumption by most people, if you're allergic to peanuts and you consume them, your body will overreact and attack the proteins. Immunoglobulin E antibodies and histamine are created to combat the peanuts proteins, which causes inflammation and irritation in various parts of the body.
Respiratory Warning Signs
During an allergic reaction to peanuts, your lungs, throat and sinus passages can swell, leading to various signs and symptoms. You can become lightheaded, short of breath, begin wheezing, coughing and may not be able to breathe. You may experience chest pain or tightness as the result of inflammation in your lungs. If your sinuses swell, you will develop nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sinus headaches, sneezing and a runny nose. The feeling of a lump in your throat is a warning sign of a severe allergic reaction. Call 911 if you develop this symptom.
Other Signs
A peanut allergy can also cause complications in your digestive system and cardiovascular system. Digestive complications include symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, bloating, vomiting, nausea and cramping. Most digestive symptoms develop within a few minutes of ingesting peanuts and will last as long as the proteins are still in your system. Cardiovascular signs include dizziness, lightheadedness and an increased, but faint heart rate. Your blood pressure may suddenly drop as a result. These signs need evaluation by a medical professional immediately.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to potentially life-threatening symptoms. Anaphylaxis can cause your body to experience a state of shock that will require emergency medical intervention. Peanut allergies are commonly associated with anaphylaxis, which requires an injection of epinephrine to treat the extreme symptoms If you have a known peanut allergy, your doctor may prescribe this medication to carry with you at all times.
