What are the symptoms of a peanut or nut allergy?
While all food allergies cause uncomfortable symptoms, peanut and nut allergies are especially troublesome because they often result in more severe reactions than other food allergies and after exposure to only trace amounts of the offending food. Like other food allergies, peanut and nut allergies are caused by an over-reaction of the body’s immune system to otherwise harmless proteins. Symptoms can include hives, skin rash, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, sneezing and itchy-watery eyes, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Peanut and nut allergies can also cause anaphylaxis, the most severe form of allergic reaction involving several parts of the body. Anaphylactic reactions occur almost immediately after exposure and are characterized by swelling, breathing difficulty, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. If not treated immediately, death can result. Q: With so many nut-free classrooms the norm these days, peanut and nut allergies affect even parents whose child is not allergic. Any tips
