Peanuts and tree nuts are the foods most likely to cause a severe allergic reaction. If your child, a friend, or someone in your family has an allergy to peanuts or tree nuts, get the facts and keep them safe. Be ready to give your child first aid. Severe allergic reactions can be fatal.
- One out of 100 people is allergic to peanuts or tree nuts (walnuts, almonds and cashews).
- Children under the age of 3 are most likely to have food sensitivities. Be especially watchful when introducing new foods that might cause allergic reactions. If you don't know which foods are risky, ask during doctor exams or call the health department.
- Children with asthma and other food allergies are at increased risk for severe reactions.
- There is no cure for food allergy. Avoiding nuts (read all ingredient lists!) is the only way to prevent a reaction.
- Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, hives, swelling, eczema, itching or swelling of the lips, tongue or mouth; itching, burning or tightness in the throat; breathing trouble or wheezing.
- Allergic symptoms can begin within minutes to one hour after eating the food.
- As little as half a nut can cause a fatal reaction for severely allergic persons. Some people can even have a reaction simply from inhaling the odor of nuts.
- People with an allergy to peanuts or tree nuts should carry epinephrine (an epi-pen) with them at all times.
For more information about food allergies and analphylaxis: