Are you allergic to these tree nuts too? Let's talk about Tree Nut Allergy!

Have you ever had a rash or difficulty breathing after eating nuts like cashews or almonds? Or has someone you know had one? Some people can have severe allergies to these tree nuts. That's why we call them Tree Nut Allergy. Since this can be a bit serious, let's talk about it in detail today, okay?

What is ``Tree Nut Allergy''?

Simply put, a person with a ``Tree Nut Allergy'' has a nervous system - our body's defense system - that is, our immune system - that is, our body's defense system - that is, our immune system - that is, our body 's immune system - that is, our

What are these `(Tree Nuts)`?

Now let's see what these `(Tree Nuts)` are. You may have heard of the popular cashews in our country, as well as almonds, walnuts. In addition to these, there are also internationally popular nuts such as `(Brazil nuts)`, `(Hazelnuts)`, `(Macadamia nuts)`, `(Pistachios)`, and `(Pecans)`. All of these are what we commonly call `(Tree Nuts)`. Some people may be allergic to only one type of these. Others may be allergic to several, or even all of them. Although some food allergies go away over time, for many people this `(Tree Nut Allergy)` is something that can last a lifetime.

What are the symptoms of a `(Tree Nut Allergy)`?

Okay, now let's see what symptoms a person with a ``Tree Nut Allergy`` will experience if they ingest such a nut. Chemicals like ``Histamine`` are released in the body, which can cause things like:

• Wheezing is a whistling sound when breathing.
• Difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Hoarseness, change in voice
• Feeling like your throat is constricted, like something is stuck in it
• Stomach ache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (stomachache)
• Itchy, watery eyes, swollen eyes
• Skin rash, hives
• Red spots on the skin
• Swelling in various parts of the body
• A sudden drop in blood pressure, feeling dizzy, and possibly losing consciousness
• Feeling all sorts of things in your mind, just feeling fear and unease, like something bad is going to happen.

These allergic reactions can vary from person to person. Sometimes, even in the same person, the symptoms can vary from one case to another. Some reactions are very simple, perhaps just a single thing, like a small rash on the skin. However, some reactions are more severe and can affect several parts of the body.

The severe condition called `Anaphylaxis`

Now we are going to talk about a slightly more serious, and potentially very dangerous, condition. That is a severe allergic reaction called `Anaphylaxis`. Even if you had a minor reaction the first time, you may experience this `Anaphylaxis` the next time. `Anaphylaxis` may start with the same general symptoms as mentioned earlier, but the condition can quickly become severe. You may not be able to breathe, you may lose consciousness. This can affect more than one part of the body.

If this is not treated quickly, it can even be life-threatening. Therefore, if you know you have a `(Tree Nut Allergy)`, it is imperative to be aware of this `(Anaphylaxis)` as well.

How do you treat an allergic reaction?

Okay, now if you have a ``Tree Nut Allergy'' (or any other severe food allergy), your doctor will tell you to always keep two doses of a medicine called ``Epinephrine'' on hand in case of an emergency.

Epinephrine is a prescription medicine. It comes in a small, portable device (often called an auto-injector). It is very easy to use. Your doctor will show you how to use it. You should always keep this medicine with you. Not in a locker or in the school nurse's office, but with you wherever you go.

Every second counts in an allergic reaction. If you start to have severe symptoms, such as swelling of your mouth or throat, or difficulty breathing, you should use `(Epinephrine)` immediately. Also, if you experience symptoms in two different parts of your body at once, such as skin rash and vomiting, then use `(Epinephrine)` immediately. Then call 911 immediately , or have someone take you to a hospital as soon as possible. Even if the worst seems to have passed, it is essential that you remain under medical supervision. Because sometimes, a `(second wave of symptoms)` can occur for a second time.

Your doctor can give you an ``Allergy Action Plan'', a clear plan for how to prepare for an allergy, recognize symptoms, and seek treatment. Share this plan with other people who need to know, such as your family, school officials, and coaches. Also, consider wearing a ``Medical Alert Bracelet.''

Keeping `(Epinephrine)` on hand is only one part of your action plan. In addition, it is a good idea to keep a common allergy medicine (`(Antihistamine)`) on hand. This can help control minor allergy symptoms. However, never use an `(Antihistamine)` instead of `(Epinephrine)` in the event of a severe reaction. `(Epinephrine)` should always be given as the first treatment.

How to live with a `(Tree Nut Allergy)`?

Okay, now let's look at how to live with a `(Tree Nut Allergy)`. If you have a test like `(Allergy Skin Testing)` and it is confirmed that you are allergic to these nuts, an allergist will advise you on what to do.

The best way to avoid a reaction is to avoid these nuts altogether . That doesn't just mean not eating them. It also means not eating any foods that might contain them as an ingredient. The best way to know for sure that a food is free of these nuts is to read the label carefully .

Most foods sold in Sri Lanka now clearly state what they contain on their labels. So, first check the ingredients list.

Then, look for statements like "may contain tree nuts" or "produced on shared equipment with tree nuts." People with a ``Tree Nut Allergy'' should also avoid foods with these statements on the label. Even if they don't contain nuts directly, if the nuts are used in other foods in the same place they are made, small amounts can end up in those foods. We call this ``cross-contamination.'' That is, unknowingly mixing nuts into a food that doesn't contain nuts.

Imagine, you buy a piece of cake from a store. If the same bakery that made that cake also makes cashew cake, almond cake, etc., if you use the same bowl, the same spoon, and the same table, some of those nut powders can get into your cake without you even knowing it. That's what is called ``Cross-contamination''.

The most risky foods for people with a ``Tree Nut Allergy`` are biscuits and other bakery products, chocolate, ice cream, and various sauces (especially those found in Asian cuisine). These can often contain hidden nuts.

Always be very careful. Even if it's a food you've eaten before, manufacturers sometimes change their manufacturing processes. Because the ingredients can change,Even if you previously thought it was safe, it's still important to read the label. Also, even if two foods look the same, there may be differences in the way they are prepared.

What else do you need to know?

Here are some other important things to remember:

• Be aware of cross-contamination that can occur through kitchen surfaces, knives, cutting boards, and equipment like the toaster. For example, don't butter your bread with the same knife that someone else used to eat a piece of bread with cashew butter. Don't toast your bread in the same toaster that toasts bread with nuts.
• Avoid eating cooked food that you did not prepare yourself and whose ingredients you do not know exactly. Be very careful when eating out, especially in restaurants.
• Make it clear to everyone who handles your food – from family members and relatives to restaurant waiters – that you are allergic to these nuts. If the manager, chef, or owner of a restaurant is uncomfortable with your request, don't eat there.
• Make as many of your school and office lunches and snacks at home as possible. That way, you have complete control over the ingredients.
• Make sure your school and workplace know about your allergy and have an ``Action Plan'' for what to do in an emergency.
• Always keep Epinephrine with you – not in your locker, not on your desk, but in your pocket, purse, or book bag.

Living with a food allergy can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, as the number of people with these allergies increases, businesses and restaurants are becoming more aware of the risks.

Whether you're going to a friend's house or going out to dinner with them, if they don't know about your allergy, tell them in advance. That way they can be a little prepared. Since they're your friends, they'll definitely understand. They'll expect you to help them out in the same way if they have a problem, right?

So, here are some things to remember from what we've talked about...

Tree Nut Allergy is an allergic reaction to certain tree nuts (such as cashews and almonds). This can be very severe for some people, and can even lead to life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis.

The main thing is to completely avoid foods containing these nuts. This requires reading food labels carefully and being careful about cross-contamination.

If you have a tree nut allergy, always carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you, as directed by your doctor. Also, create an Allergy Action Plan and inform those closest to you about it.

Don't eat suspicious foods. When eating out, be sure to mention your allergies.

If you are aware of this and take precautions, you can live a normal, happy life even with a ``Tree Nut Allergy''. Don't worry, you are not alone!

Tree Nut Allergy, Allergy Symptoms, Anaphylaxis, Epinephrine, Food Allergy, Cross-contamination