Peanut Allergy
A peanut allergy is most
severe because peanuts and peanut oil are found in many types of foods.
It is a food allergy that causes the immune system to over react. The
body views the peanut substance as a threat to the body, creating
antibiotics to destroy it. These antibiotics the body makes contain
chemicals that are harmful to the respiratory system, the central
nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and the skin. It is
estimated that 3 million people suffer from a peanut allergy. Some
cases are mild and others severe enough that death could result from
it.
I hadn’t really heard much about peanut allergy until my daughter
went to preschool. There were signs on all the entrances warning that a
child on campus had a severe peanut allergy and listed food items that
were not allowed to be brought into the school. Her case was severe
enough that even coming into contact with the peanut substance on a
doorknob could trigger her peanut allergy and result in death. This
type of peanut allergy is called Anaphylaxis. This results in an
immediate reaction to the peanut product from consumption or contact of
the skin. The only treatment for this is Epinephrine and emergency
medical attention. Most who have a peanut allergy don’t have it
to this degree.
A peanut allergy will often show itself when a person is young. Up to
25% of children with a peanut allergy eventually outgrow it as they get
older. It is believed their immune system has evolved enough to handle
the product. Common symptoms of a peanut allergy include eczema, hives,
rashes, an upset stomach, digestive problems, and breathing problems.
It is common for a person with a peanut allergy to have red cheeks and
swollen lips.
Since peanut oil and peanut substances are commonly used, it is very
important to read labels. It is also important to teach children with a
peanut allergy about what foods and substances they have to avoid.
Teachers, friends, family members, and any one else who will be in
contact with your child needs to be aware of their peanut allergy as
well as understand the treatment process for your child if a peanut
allergic reaction does occur. Some products that have peanut substances
in them are cosmetics, foods, and some types of medications. While some
foods are a given there are others you need to watch out for. Peanut
oil is common in foods with beans such as chili and burritos.
Your doctor can help determine if you have a peanut allergy as well as
the severity of it. While it will require you to make some diet changes
and lifestyle changes you should be able to live a fairly normal life
while controlling your peanut allergy. It is vital to help young
children become aware of their peanut allergy at an early age. They
need to know what triggers it, the symptoms of it, and the right
treatment for it. Peanut allergy education is very important.
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