An allergy to nuts is one of the most common food allergies that may cause a rash to develop anywhere on your body. An estimated 1.8 million Americans have a tree nut allergy, which can be fatal. Rashes that develop from a nut allergy may be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis. Any time you develop a rash from eating a food allergen, call your doctor for further instructions.
Nut Allergy
A nut allergy applies to any nut. Although peanuts are not a true nut, but rather a legume, they are commonly placed in the same category as tree nuts because they have a similar structure, according to Kids Health. Nut allergies occur when your immune system mistakes the harmless proteins in nuts as dangerous. The immune system overreacts to this mistake by unleashing immunoglobulin E antibodies to attack the nut proteins. The presence of these chemicals causes the production of histamine, resulting in inflammation in the lungs, sinuses, digestive system and skin. Rashes are a typical symptom of a nut allergy.
Hives
Hives are a common rash that develops from an allergic reaction. They can form anywhere on your body, but mostly appear on your face, arms and legs. Hives are extremely itchy welts that are red in color and have a flat surface. Hives are harmless, unless they develop in your throat or inner ear. Hives may be sign of a severe allergic reaction, while anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that affects your entire body and could lead to death if not treated. If you develop hives, along with swelling in the face, lips or throat, and shortness of breath, call 911.
Eczema and General Inflammation
If you have a chronic skin condition called eczema, a nut allergy may trigger an outbreak of the rash. Eczema causes small bumps to form on your skin that are filled with liquid. The blisters can weep and cause the blisters to crust over. In extreme cases, eczema can cause permanent scarring. You may also develop general inflammation and redness of the skin from a nut allergy. It's common to have an itch in your mouth, nose, throat and on the surface of the skin from a nut allergy.
Prevention
The only way to prevent rashes form a nut allergy is to avoid all nuts that you have an allergy to. The U.S. government requires an allergen warning on all packaged foods that contain nuts. Be aware of others near you who may be eating nut products, such as in a restaurant or school cafeteria, and notify those who may be preparing food for you that you are allergic to nuts.
