Have you ever seen some little kids get sick and have trouble breathing after eating a few peanuts? Or has this happened to your own child? This is what we call a peanut allergy . It can be really serious, so it's important to be aware of it. Let's talk about this today, okay?
What is Peanut Allergy?
Simply put, a peanut allergy means that the person's immune system - the system that normally protects us from disease and germs - overreacts to certain proteins in peanuts. Imagine that if such a person eats or drinks something containing peanuts, their body thinks that these proteins are harmful invaders that need to be removed. So, the immune system starts working properly to fight off these 'invaders'. That's when an allergic reaction occurs.
Many people think that peanuts are a true nut. But peanuts are actually a member of the legume family, like chickpeas and lentils. Peanuts are a very common food allergen. Sometimes, we can find them in foods we don't even think about. For example, some chilies use ground peanuts to thicken them. You never thought about it, did you?
Some food allergies go away over time. But peanut allergies are something that many people can have for the rest of their lives . So it's important to be aware of this.
What are the symptoms of a peanut allergy?
When someone with a peanut allergy eats something containing peanuts, their body releases chemicals like histamine . This is what causes the symptoms. Here are some of the symptoms:
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Cough
- Hoarseness of voice
- Feeling like your throat is constricted
- Stomach ache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes
- Body aches, hives
- Red spots on the body
- Swelling
- Sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
- Feeling uneasy, nervous, or like something bad is going to happen
Allergic reactions to peanuts can vary from person to person. Sometimes, even the same person may react differently at different times. For example, one day they may have only minor reactions, and the next day they may be more severe. Some reactions can be very mild , such as skin rashes, affecting only one system in the body. However, other reactions can be more severe and affect several parts of the body.
The most important thing to remember is that even if you have only had a minor allergy in the past, a peanut allergy can cause a very severe, life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis . This is something to keep in mind.
This condition called anaphylaxis may start with the same symptoms as the previous mild reaction. However, it can get worse very quickly . It can cause difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. It can affect several parts of the body. If not treated properly, anaphylaxis can be life-threatening . So you need to be very vigilant about this.
What to do if you have an allergy? How to treat it?
If your child has a peanut allergy or other severe food allergy, it's essential to always keep two doses of epinephrine on hand. This can be life-saving in the event of a severe allergic reaction. It's like a lifesaver.
Epinephrine is a prescription medicine. It comes in a small, portable device (auto-injector). It is very easy to use. Your doctor will show you how to use it. Older children can also be taught how to inject themselves. If your child carries epinephrine, it should be with them at all times. It is not enough to keep it in their locker or in the school nurse's office. It is important to have it available quickly in case of an emergency.
Your doctor can also give you an 'allergy action plan' . This can help you prepare for, recognize, and treat an allergic reaction. Share this plan with everyone who cares for your child. This includes relatives, school officials, and parents of other children your child plays with. Also, consider having your child wear a medical alert bracelet .
Every second counts in an allergic reaction. If your child develops severe allergic symptoms – such as swelling of the mouth and throat, difficulty breathing – give epinephrine right away. Also, if symptoms occur in two different parts of the body at once, such as hives and vomiting, give epinephrine. Then call 119 (you can contact the ambulance service through the police emergency number) immediately and take your child to the emergency room. The child should be under medical supervision. Sometimes, even when the worst seems to be over, a second wave of symptoms can occur .
Sometimes allergists recommend keeping antihistamines (available over-the-counter (OTC)) on hand. These can help with minor allergy symptoms. However, remember that antihistamines should only be given after epinephrine has been given in the event of a severe reaction, and should never be used as a substitute for epinephrine.
What other important things do we need to know about this?
If your child has a peanut allergy, you should help them avoid eating peanuts. Read food labels carefully. Ingredients can change when food is prepared, and peanuts can be found in places you might not expect.
The best way to know for sure if a food is peanut-free is to read the label. In some countries (e.g. America), food manufacturers are required to state on the label whether the food contains peanuts or not. In Sri Lanka, this information is now available on many products. First, look at the ingredients list.
Some foods may look good on the ingredient list, but when they are made, they can come into contact with peanuts. This is what we call cross-contamination . Think of it like spreading peanut butter on the same spoon and then sharing another meal with the same spoon. Look for advisory statements like 'May contain peanuts', 'Processed in a facility that also processes peanuts' or 'Manufactured on equipment also used for peanuts'. Not all companies label this cross-contamination. So if you have any doubts, be sure to call or email the company to confirm.
Some of the foods that are most at risk for people with a peanut allergy are baked goods, candy, sauces, and ice cream. Also, be careful where you share equipment, such as ice cream scoops or soft-serve ice cream dispensing machines.
When eating out, make sure your child always has two unexpired doses of epinephrine. Also, be sure to tell anyone preparing or serving your child's food about the peanut allergy. Sometimes, you can bring food from home that you know is safe for your child. If the chef, manager, or owner of a restaurant seems uncomfortable with your request for a safe meal, it's best to avoid eating there.
Talk to school staff about the risk of cross-contamination in cafeteria food. Some families feel more comfortable packing lunches from home.
If you want to learn more about how to manage food allergies, you can visit the websites of international organizations such as Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). (These are often in English, but contain a lot of important information.)
Finally, things to remember
Okay, so we've talked a lot about peanut allergy. It may seem a little scary, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can live with it successfully.
- If you suspect or confirm that your child has a peanut allergy, follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
- Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector. You, your child, and anyone who cares for your child should know exactly how to use it.
- Make it a habit to read food labels. Be aware of 'hidden' peanuts, too.
- Be careful about cross-contamination, especially when eating out.
- Inform your child's school and friends' parents about this. It's very important to maintain good communication.
Remember, you are not alone. There are many others dealing with similar situations. If necessary, seek help from doctors and other parents. Don't be afraid, we are all in this together!
` Peanut Allergy, Allergies, Children's Allergies, Epinephrine, Anaphylaxis, Food Allergies
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