If you have eczema and you’re allergic to peanuts, consuming peanuts may cause your eczema to flare up. Eczema is a chronic condition in which patches of skin become leathery and itchy. Some eczema develops as blisters filled with fluid that can crack, weep and crust over. If you suspect that you have a peanut allergy that is causing an eczema flare-up, call your doctor.
Eczema
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, may develop anywhere on the body but commonly develops on the arms, knees and backs of the legs. Eczema is most likely the result of complications in the immune system and hypersensitive skin, but the exact cause is unknown. Most eczema is managed through making dietary changes, keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding skin irritants. In severe cases of eczema, prescribed corticosteroid creams alleviate inflammation and itching.
Peanut Allergy
An allergy to peanuts is one of the most common food allergies and doesn't subside with age. Peanuts are not tree nuts, but actually belong to the legume family. Peanut allergies in children doubled from 1997 to 2002, according to The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network. If you have a peanut allergy and you accidentally ingest peanuts, your body creates various chemicals that cause inflammation. Histamine released in the surface of the skin causes increased blood flow from dilated blood vessels and inflammation, triggering eczema. The only way to prevent eczema and other peanut allergy symptoms is to avoid peanuts.
Peanut Avoidance
Avoiding peanuts may be more difficult than you think. Because even a small amount of peanut residue can trigger an allergic reaction and eczema, you need to avoid all foods that are processed on shared equipment with peanuts. Peanuts may be found in chili sauce, hot sauce, gravy, mole sauce, egg rolls, pet food, potato pancakes, pizza, glazes, peanut butter and meat substitutes. The federal government requires that all foods that contain peanuts feature an allergy warning near the listed ingredients. In some cases, touching peanuts can trigger eczema.
Warning
Not only are peanuts a common food allergen, but they are also a common cause of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Signs of this type of reaction include hives, shortness of breath, a drop in blood pressure, an increased heart rate and facial swelling.
