Facts About Peanut Allergy

There are different types of allergy, and peanut allergy is one of them that you need to seriously consider. While other allergies can just trigger usual symptoms like itching, sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, swelling hands or feet, peanut allergy can lead to sudden death. Peanut allergy can cause anaphylaxis or a state of unconsciousness that can prove fatal. Also, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, peanut allergy is the main culprit behind food-related deaths. There are lots of incidents where the kitchen staff ignored the request to never include peanuts in meals that lead to fatal results. The person with peanut allergy goes anaphylactic and without epinephrine in a few minutes could lead to death. For you to protect the people close to you who have peanut allergy, then you have to understand what it is.

Peanut allergy usually develops among very young children such as toddlers. As a parent, it is imperative to learn the symptoms of peanut allergy. Although it is believed that kids eventually outgrow this kind of allergy, it can still lead to serious consequences when ignored. There have also been studies mentioned in Wisegeek that peanut allergy among children surfaces since they have relatives with allergies too. It could also be passed on from the genes so might as well check your relatives who may have one.

Peanut allergy can be triggered by simply eating peanuts or food with peanuts such as marzipans, energy bars, baked goods, ice cream and frozen desserts, grain breads and dishes that are Oriental, African or Mexican. Once a person with peanut allergy consumes even a small portion, the body reacts by itching or tingling around mouth  area, diarrhea, swelling, rashes, stomach cramps, tightening of chest, shortness of breath, stuffy nose and even become unconscious according to the Mayo Clinic website. Anaphylactic shock can be fatal due to the obstruction of the airways and rapid pulse that ensues. A first-aid treatment known as Epinephrine is used when symptoms manifest itself. Rushing to the hospital is also advisable.

Peanut allergy can be prevented by avoiding any food who have peanuts as ingredient.