Do I Have A Tree Nut Allergy?

Do you have any signs or symptoms shortly after eating the tree nuts (usually within a few minutes to half an hour) or foods that contain tree nuts?

Do you have raised red bumps of skin – hives (urticaria)?

Do you have swelling of the lips?

Do you have tingling of the throat and mouth?

Do you have itchy skin and rash?

Do you have stuffy or runny nose?

Do you have tightening of the throat or difficulty swallowing?

Do you have breathing difficulties?

Do you have abdominal cramps, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting?

Do you have a family history of allergies?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a tree nut allergy. A tree nut allergy is one of the most common food allergies in the United States. In many cases, an allergy to tree nuts is related to a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, and should be taken seriously. About 25 to 40 percent of people who are allergic to tree nuts are allergic to peanuts at the same time. For this reason, allergists usually advise people with a tree nut allergy to also avoid peanuts due to the risk of cross-contamination between tree nuts and peanuts in food processing facilities.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a tree nut allergy. A tree nut allergy is one of the eight most common food allergies in America, which can occur in both adults and children. The tree nuts include almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans and pistachios. A person may be allergic to only one or more types of nuts. An allergic reaction can range from mild, which includes itching, tingling of the throat and mouth, or watery eyes, to very severe and potentially life-threatening, so timely diagnosis is crucial. Diagnosing is based on your medical history, a skin prick test and blood tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a tree nut allergy. A tree nut allergy is a type of food allergy, which is the result of an overreaction of your immune system to the proteins from the tree nuts. The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid eating them. However, tree nuts are a common ingredient in salads, Asian dishes, sauces, pastries and desserts. Food companies must clearly highlight the ingredient list on their products, so you should read the labels carefully when choosing food. People with severe allergic reactions should have adrenaline available at all times.