Are You Suffering From a Tree Nut Allergy?
Tree nut allergies are one of the most common allergies that affect both adults and children. If you suspect you or your child may have a tree nut allergy, it is crucial to seek out an appropriate treatment from an experienced allergist.
While it is possible to have an allergy and suffer minimal side effects, reactions can vary in potency and could even become life-threatening. Did you know that an estimated 1.1% of U.S. citizens are currently afflicted with a tree nut allergy?
What Are Tree Nuts?
Tree nuts are a group of nuts that grow on trees (not underground). The most recognizable examples of tree nuts are the following:
- Almonds
- Brazil nuts
- Cashews
- Chestnuts
- Hazelnuts
- Macadamia nuts
- Pecans
- Pine nuts
- Pistachios
- Walnuts
It is possible to be allergic to just one of these nuts, or to a number of them. Also, many tree nut allergy sufferers also experience an allergic reaction to peanuts, though technically peanuts are classed as legumes as they grow underground. In reality, it is difficult to know which tree nut or nuts you are sensitive to without undergoing thorough allergy testing.
Understanding Tree Nut Allergies
Although reactions can vary, tree nut allergies are closely associated with anaphylaxis. If you have concerns about your child or yourself, avoid all tree nuts until you have spoken with an allergist. It may be possible to undergo tree nut desensitization, allowing you to consume the allergy-causing tree nut in the future. However, until you have sought advice, avoidance is the safest option.
To understand whether you have an allergy, pay attention to any symptoms you experience after consuming tree nuts, including nut butters and oils, plus those foods that may contain trace amounts of nuts (as stated on product packaging).
Common Symptoms of a Tree Nut Allergy
- Stomach pains
- Vomiting
- Breathing difficulties
- Runny nose
- Itchy face or eyes
- Anaphylaxis
How to Treat Your Tree Nut Allergy
The first stage in treating a tree nut allergy is to pinpoint exactly what triggers a reaction. A consultation with your allergist will help identify any allergens, and rule out those harmless nuts that you can still consume. Now, let’s examine how this works.
Typically, a skin prick test, oral challenge test or blood test will be conducted to understand your allergy. You can then avoid the allergic nuts in your daily food intake. There is a treatment option here – it’s called oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT). A limited number of allergists offer it. OIT is a desensitization process that over time enables people to consume allergens without experiencing adverse reactions.
Get Expert Treatment for a Tree Nut Allergy
A tree nut allergy could cause a severe reaction if left untreated. Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center can diagnose a tree nut allergy and develop the best treatment options for you or your child. Request an appointment at one of our food allergy treatment center locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek online, or by calling 678-668-4688.
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