Allergy to peanuts: Signs, solutions, and control strategies
Peanut allergies can be a serious health concern for many individuals, particularly children. These allergies develop when the body produces peanut-specific IgE antibodies, and consuming peanuts triggers a reaction with these antibodies.
If you or your child is considering Palforzia, an oral form of immunotherapy, it's essential to consult an allergist. This powder, manufactured from peanuts, is taken by emptying it into semisolid food that can be eaten, such as applesauce.
To manage a peanut allergy, individuals should strictly avoid peanuts and any foods that contain them, and also avoid products that have become contaminated through production processes. In case of an accidental exposure, severe symptoms can include trouble breathing, tightness of the throat, a hoarse voice, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. In such cases, immediate medical attention is required, and doctors may use epinephrine injections and intravenous fluids to treat anaphylaxis.
For those experiencing anaphylactic shock, it's crucial to seek emergency medical treatment immediately. This severe allergic reaction can affect the central nervous system, causing fainting or cardiac arrest.
In the case of a peanut allergy diagnosis, a doctor may assess the patient's medical history, examine them physically, ask about the type and amount of food they eat, and the accompanying symptoms they experience. Infants who have severe eczema or an allergy to eggs are at a higher risk of developing a peanut allergy.
To prevent peanut allergies in infants and children, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) recommends introducing peanut-containing foods at 4–6 months after other solids have been tried. It's important to continue feeding peanut products regularly—at least three times per week—to maintain tolerance. For infants at high risk, such as those with severe eczema, egg allergy, or both, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting peanuts.
Ongoing research, including NIH clinical trials, is exploring whether maternal consumption of peanuts during pregnancy and breastfeeding might help prevent allergies. However, current primary prevention focuses on early infant introduction.
Additional practical advice includes preparing food for children with known allergies first to avoid cross-contamination and for breastfeeding parents or families with allergic members, practicing rigorous hygiene like hand washing and cleaning utensils and surfaces properly after allergen introduction to minimize accidental exposures.
The recommended method for preventing peanut allergies is supported by strong clinical evidence demonstrating long-term prevention of peanut allergy. Approximately 20% of people who experience a peanut allergy early in life will eventually develop a tolerance for peanuts.
It's also worth noting that food Allergy Research and Education suggest that younger siblings of children who are allergic to peanuts may be at higher risk themselves.
In 2020, a medication called Palforzia was approved for those aged 4-17, which aims to reduce allergic reactions to peanuts if a person experiences accidental exposure. The proteins in peanuts may have evolved into potential allergens as a result of the plant's defense system.
In summary, introducing peanut foods at 4–6 months after other solids have been tried, continuing peanut feeding regularly (at least three times weekly), consulting a healthcare provider for infants at high risk, following hygiene practices to avoid cross-contact, and being aware of the signs of anaphylaxis are crucial in managing and preventing peanut allergies. These strategies are based on strong clinical evidence demonstrating long-term prevention of peanut allergy.
- It's crucial for individuals with allergies, particularly peanut allergies, to manage their health and wellness carefully, following medical advice and dietary restrictions.
- Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention, often involving epinephrine injections and intravenous fluids.
- Science and medical research play vital roles in understanding and treating chronic medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, mental health issues, and allergies, as well as exploring new therapies and treatments like CBD.
- Nutrition, skin care, fitness, and exercise are essential components of overall health and wellness, but should be adjusted to accommodate any medical conditions or special dietary needs.
- In addition to managing chronic diseases, individuals with allergies also need to focus on preventing accidental exposures, such as through thorough hand washing, proper cleaning of utensils, and preparing allergen-free meals first.
- For those diagnosed with peanut allergies, it's important to consult healthcare providers for guidance on managing the condition, including strategies for introducing peanut-containing foods and maintaining tolerance, as well as staying informed about new treatments and medications, such as Palforzia.
