Tree nuts include cashews, almonds, pine nuts, walnuts and other nuts that grow on trees. Due to the severe nature of tree nut allergies, all food labels must include any allergen contents. This requirement is not extended to include foods that were manufactured in facilities that might have allergens but some companies include a warning willingly. The symptoms of tree nut allergies can vary from mild to severe. Even though tree nut allergies are among the common allergies worldwide, it is less likely to be outgrown than some other allergies that appear during childhood.
Once an individual is suspected with tree nut allergy, it is vital to schedule an appointment with a doctor so that proper testing can be performed in order to determine the exact trigger.
What are the mild symptoms?
Remember that an individual can suffer from mild allergy symptoms from consuming or inhaling even the smallest particles of tree nuts. An individual can react to tree nuts by simply inhaling them, but the symptoms are usually mild in nature. The following are the mild symptoms of tree nut allergies:
- Sneezing episodes
- Throat itchiness
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Hives
- Skin itchiness
- Eczema
In some circumstances, if the individual handles or directly exposed to tree nuts, he/she might end up with severe skin reactions.
What are the moderate symptoms?
The uncomfortable indications of tree nut allergies can develop from consuming or contact with any type of tree nut. The symptoms that can manifest after exposure usually include the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Itchiness around the mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Rapid heartbeat
Those who have asthma can suffer from an acute attack. Some children even lose consciousness when experiencing an allergic reaction. These are moderate symptoms that can manifest rapidly or the allergic reaction might be delayed in some cases. The exact time before a reaction occurs varies from one individual to another.
What are the severe symptoms?
It is important to note that tree nut allergies have the tendency to trigger an anaphylactic reaction which is a severe type of reaction. The symptoms of this severe allergic reaction include the following:
- Swelling of the mouth
- Swelling of the throat
- Drastic drop in the blood pressure
- Constriction of the airways that causes breathing issues and bluish discoloration of the skin
The start of anaphylactic shock can be abrupt and severe which requires emergency medical care. The individual might lose consciousness from an attack. It is important to note that an allergic reaction can result to death if not promptly treated.
Individuals who are at risk for severe allergic reactions are usually prescribed by the doctor with an injectable epinephrine. The individual should administer a shot once initial symptoms are present. If the individual could not administer a shot, you have to administer a shot.