Hi... I am new to this forum but I do have an adult on-set PA which I discovered when I was 22. I was very skeptical in the beginning because I had eaten peanuts growing up and doubted whether or not I was truly allergic. I was prescribed an epi-pen which I do carry at all times (with my antihistamines.) and I avoid all nuts (not confirmed TNA allergy but i do not eat them). The first reaction I had included trouble breathing, tightness of chest, vomitting and diahrea (sp). I have a number of mild reactions which include sneezing, rash,etc. But there have been a few occasions when i wake up with swollen lips. (no other symptom.) The last reaction I had was 2 years ago. I was eating a store bought ciabatta bread with a number of herbs and seasonings (no nut warning label on pkg so i assumed it was ok). 20 minutes later, I was having difficulty breathing and my husband said my face appeared swollen and purple (odd!!) I took a number of antihistamines and I began to feel some ease. I was very scared but i tried not to panic. I probably should have used my epi-pen but i was not clear whether it was a reaction or not... I have read a lot of the messages and i sincerely sympathise with your constant dilemmas and reactions. I am very cautious about what i eat and i always tell restaurants about my allegy. I have, however, only had a handful of reactions. Could I have a mild allergy or am i allergic to something else as well .(Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!!
It's quite possible it was a reaction to a minute amount of peanuts from cross contamination. But it is also quite possible there is another reason for the symptoms (ie. another allergy). I know where you are coming from with adult-onsent PA. I also have TNA. Please be careful, my allergist told me that if I even suspected I was having an allergic reaction to use the epi-pen because I quickly go into anaphylactic shock. My last reaction was as soon as I started eating the food, my tongue and throat started swelling. Using my epi with in 5 minutes saved me a longer stay in the hospital.