In the past, peanuts were a favorite food of all of us. But these days, peanuts are rarely served, especially in places where young children are present, at birthday parties, and in schools. The main reason for this is peanut allergies, which affect both children and adults. It's scary to think about how much damage a small piece of food can cause, isn't it? But don't be afraid. If you are well-informed about this, recognize the symptoms, and learn how to stay away from peanuts, you can greatly reduce the risk of a severe reaction.
Who is more at risk? What is the reason?
In general, young children , especially toddlers and infants, are more likely to develop food allergies.
If you or someone in your family has other types of allergies, peanuts may also be a problem for you. Also, if you have skin conditions like eczema , the likelihood of developing a peanut allergy is even higher.
But here's the thing. Just because you have a peanut allergy doesn't mean you're allergic to other nuts. Peanuts are a legume, not a seed, that grows underground. That's why peanuts are different from tree nuts like almonds , cashews, and walnuts.
However, a recent study found that between 25% and 40% of people with peanut allergies may also be allergic to other tree nuts.
How can these peanuts enter the body?
Most often, people with this allergy experience problems when they ingest peanuts directly. That is, if they accidentally add a piece of peanut to their food, or if they eat a salad or other recipe without realizing that it contains peanuts.
But did you know that if you're very sensitive, even indirect contact can trigger an allergic reaction?
Think about it this way. You go to a restaurant and order a meal. There are no peanuts in the meal. But what if the chef who prepared that meal used the same knife that was used to prepare a meal with peanuts before, and then prepares your meal without properly cleaning it? Then tiny pieces of peanuts can end up in your food. We call this cross-contact . Sometimes this can happen by inhaling peanut dust or eating something made with unrefined peanut oil.
What problems can peanuts cause?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to peanuts usually begin within a few minutes . Let's take a look at what these symptoms are.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Skin reactions | Rash, redness, or itching on the body. |
| Mouth and throat related | Tingling, itching, or a feeling of tightness in the mouth or throat. |
| Respiratory system | Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or runny nose. |
| Digestive system | Diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, or vomiting. |
The most dangerous reaction: Anaphylaxis
This is a life-threatening allergic reaction. Therefore, it is considered a medical emergency . Peanuts are a leading cause of anaphylaxis. This can affect multiple parts of the body at once.
You are at higher risk if you have other allergies or asthma, if someone in your family has a history of anaphylaxis, or if you have had this before.
Symptoms of an anaphylaxis attack include:
- Swelling of the throat and inability to breathe
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness
- A sudden, large drop in blood pressure
- Heart palpitations
- Airway obstruction
What to do in an emergency?
Some people who already know they have a peanut allergy are told by their doctor to always carry a special auto-injector, which contains a medicine called epinephrine .
Very important: As soon as these severe symptoms start, use your `Epinephrine` injector. Then, even if the symptoms subside a little, immediately take the patient to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) without thinking about it. Because sometimes a delayed reaction can occur.
Recently, the FDA has approved a drug called ``Palforzia'' to reduce the severity of this reaction in children between the ages of 4 and 17. However, it is essential to stay away from peanuts even if you take that drug.
How do you know for sure if this is an allergy?
If you suspect you have a peanut allergy, be sure to see an allergist . Before you see your doctor, it can be helpful to keep a food diary of what you eat and any reactions you have.
If you've never had a severe reaction, your doctor may suggest an "elimination diet." This means completely eliminating peanuts or suspect foods for a week or more, then re-introducing them one by one to see which foods cause you to react.
In addition, the doctor may also do a `skin test`. This involves placing a very small amount of the food on your skin and pricking it with a small needle. If you have an allergy, you will experience a small swelling and a rash-like reaction. A blood test can also be done to see if your immune system is reacting to peanuts.
How do you avoid peanuts?
There is no simple solution to this allergy. The only way to prevent a severe reaction is to completely avoid peanuts and foods containing peanuts.
Read the label of every food package you buy from the store carefully . Ingredients can change at any time. You might not even think about it. If in doubt, ask the manufacturer to confirm.
Most people have a peanut allergy that lasts a lifetime, but some studies show that about 20% of children with this allergy outgrow it over time.
Take-Home Message
- Peanut allergy is not something to be taken lightly. It is very important to be aware of it.
- Always be aware of symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty breathing, body aches, and an itchy mouth.
- A severe reaction, called anaphylaxis, is a medical emergency. If you see such symptoms, immediately take the patient to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU).
- If you suspect you have a hay allergy, don't guess and definitely see your doctor for advice.
- Always read the labels of foods you buy at the store. This will help you avoid unknowingly ingesting peanuts.
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