Atlanta peanut allergy symptoms

What Should You Know About Peanut Allergy Symptoms?

Peanut allergies are among the most severe of all allergies, impacting both adults and children. For those who seek the help of an allergist, a peanut allergy treatment can drastically reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. Unfortunately, many individuals in Atlanta and across the country put their health at risk by ignoring the common symptoms. If you or your child experience any of the following signs after eating peanuts, contact your local allergist.

What Are the Common Peanut Allergy Symptoms?

While there are some common signs of a peanut allergy, the experience could range from very mild to potentially life-threatening. Some moderate symptoms include the following.

  • A runny nose that may include sneezing.
  • Skin irritation such as hives, a rash and redness.
  • Stomach pains, diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Slight breathing difficulties.
  • Itchy lips, mouth and throat.

Mild to moderate peanut allergy symptoms can be uncomfortable and distressing, but the experience should pass fairly quickly. Sadly, there is the possibility of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Pay attention to the following signs.

  • Severe breathing issues and constricted airways.
  • Wheezing and coughing.
  • Swallowing issues.
  • Loss of consciousness.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment and the assistance of emergency services. Individuals at risk of anaphylaxis usually carry an epinephrine auto-injector to administer adrenaline at this critical point. Treatments like peanut allergy desensitization can reduce the risk of anaphylaxis by desensitizing the immune system to the presence of peanut proteins in the body.

How Severe Are the Symptoms of a Peanut Allergy?

Peanut allergy symptoms are unpredictable, increasing the need for diagnosis and treatment. While you may have experienced some mild reactions after consuming peanuts, there is no certainty that a subsequent response will follow this pattern. For this reason, make sure to avoid any food containing peanuts until you have sought the help of a board-certified allergist.

Each year, approximately 200,000 people in the US require emergency medical treatment for a food allergy. And what’s more, numbers of children experiencing food allergies have been rising over the last decades. Paying close attention to peanut allergy symptoms is, therefore, vital to maintaining the good health of you and your children.

Next Steps if You Experience Peanut Allergy Symptoms

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, contact an allergist for a diagnosis. Food allergy testing and a discussion about your response to eating peanuts will allow for a quick diagnosis. Next, a path forward, including treating and managing the allergy, can take place. And remember, with effective treatment options like oral immunotherapy available, peanut allergies don’t need to be the burden they once were.

Overcome Your Peanut Allergy Symptoms Today

Are you concerned about a peanut allergy affecting you or your child? Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center diagnoses and treats food allergies from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment online.

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