Food allergy awareness has grown significantly in recent times. Parents today are now more likely to seek out peanut allergy treatment and diagnosis when their child displays worrying symptoms. However, there are still many people with peanut allergies who face the ongoing risk of a severe allergic reaction, yet have never visited an allergist. So, what are the peanut allergy symptoms most likely to impact adults and children in Atlanta?
What Are the Most Common Peanut Allergy Symptoms?
Studies show that peanut allergies affect around three million Americans and are a leading cause of fatal and near-fatal allergic reactions. Therefore, if you identify any of the following peanut allergy symptoms, it is critical that you visit an allergist for assessment – or the emergency room if the reaction is severe.
1. Skin Reactions
Skin reactions are likely to occur within minutes of eating peanuts, though they could take several hours to appear. Hives are raised, itchy welts that vary in size. Hives appear red or pink and may cause discomfort.
2. Stomach Issues
A reaction to peanuts may cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. In some cases, stomach issues signal a food intolerance rather than an allergy. However, to make an accurate diagnosis your allergist will need to conduct food allergy testing.
3. Anaphylaxis
A peanut allergy can cause anaphylaxis, potentially resulting in life-threatening symptoms. Anaphylaxis symptoms are severe, and may include a fast pulse, constricted airways, extreme breathing difficulties, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
4. Breathing Complaints
Less severe allergic reactions can lead to shortness of breath and wheezing. While these breathing concerns are not as severe as anaphylaxis, they will lead to temporary discomfort.
5. Itching
After consuming peanuts, a typical early allergy symptom will be itching of the mouth, lips or throat. A person may also experience skin itching and tingling. And as with other food allergies, it’s possible to experience an allergic reaction from minimal allergen contact, such as traces of peanuts, peanut dust or crumbs, or even the aroma from cooking with peanut oil.
6. Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion, a runny nose or a cough may signal an allergic reaction. Because these symptoms are also prominent with environmental allergies, it’s essential to get a diagnosis from an allergy doctor.
Effective Treatments for Peanut Allergy Symptoms
Treating a peanut allergy requires discipline and a commitment to the requirements of the remedy. In practice, this could mean avoiding all peanut products, or committing to around one year of allergy desensitization treatment. Here are some ways to limit the potential for allergic reactions.
- Antihistamine or corticosteroid medication.
- Desensitization with oral immunotherapy treatment.
- Adjust recipes to prevent peanut contact.
- Carrying epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis.
Professional Treatments for Peanut Allergy Symptoms in Atlanta
Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center has leading allergists, offering reliable diagnosis and treatment for peanut allergies. If you are concerned about a food allergy, visit one of our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
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