Peanuts are one of the most common allergy-causing foods. The severity of peanut allergies can range from mild to life threatening. Technically, peanuts are not true nuts. They are a member of the legume family, which includes lentils and peas. Peanuts have a similar protein makeup to tree nuts, which is why people who are allergic to peanuts can have allergies to other nuts.
The Allergic Reaction
Sometimes the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance, such as a peanut, as being harmful when it really is not. The immune system creates antibodies known as IgE, or immunoglobulin E, to fight off the attacking proteins. IgE causes the release of histamine, which triggers allergy symptoms.
Peanut Allergy Symptoms
Allergic reactions can be mild or severe and tend to occur shortly after exposure. Most symptoms are mild and include hives, redness, swelling and tingling or numbness of the lips and throat. In severe cases, the person can faint or have nausea and vomiting. The airway can swell and prevent breathing. This serious reaction is anaphylaxis. Blood pressure can drop dangerously low, causing shock. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires treatment in an emergency room with a shot of epinephrine.
Cautions
If you are severely allergic to peanuts, you may have a reaction without actually eating them. You can encounter them on your skin, or eat foods made by machinery that has also processed peanuts. Even inhaling dust from peanut flour can trigger a reaction in some people.
Staying Safe
Avoid foods that you did not cook or if you are unsure of the ingredients. Tell all family, friends and co-workers about your allergy, especially if it is serious. A med-alert bracelet will notify others of your allergy if you cannot speak. Scrutinize food labels for ingredients and warnings that items may have been processed using machinery that has processed peanuts. If you have children, make their lunch and notify their school. Due to the prevalence and seriousness of peanut allergies, some school districts have adopted a strict no-peanut policy. Find out if your child's school has such a policy.
