Peanut Allergy Symptoms and Signs

photo by John Lewis

Peanut allergy symptoms resemble those of other food allergies but are notable for their severity. Histamine reactions and digestive problems are characteristic of all food allergies, but for some reason peanut allergy often triggers a more serious reaction. In fact, peanut allergy is the most common cause of food allergy-related death. It is important to remember that the risk of a fatal peanut allergy attack is extremely low: about 150 people die annually from all food allergies in the U.S. But awareness is important, especially if you think that your child might have a peanut allergy.

Symptoms

Peanut allergy symptoms vary from person to person. Most people develop symptoms immediately after coming into contact with peanuts. The degree of allergic reaction also varies from person to person. Some people are so sensitive that mere inhalation of a few peanut fragments may trigger a severe reaction.

Signs and symptoms of peanut allergy can include:

• Rashes such as hives, redness or swelling
• Itching or tingling in or around the mouth and throat
• Digestive problems such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting
• Tightening of the chest
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Anaphylaxis, which may include facial swelling, difficulty breathing, weakness, a sudden drop in blood pressure and/or collapse. It is important to recognize that anaphylaxis can be signaled by collapse or drowsiness rather than by a rash or breathing difficulty.

Dive Deeper

• Recognizing Anaphylaxis and How To Treat It

References:

• Mayo Clinic: Peanut Allergy Symptoms
• Warner J.O., "How dangerous is food allergy in childhood?" Pediatric Allergy & Immunology 2002
• Green, Todd D., et al, "Clinical Characteristics of Peanut-Allergic Children: Recent Changes," PEDIATRICS Vol. 120 No. 6 December 2007
• Christakis, NIcholas, "This allergies hysteria is just nuts," BMJ, 13 Dec 2008