Peanut allergy

An allergic reaction to peanuts, the leading cause of anaphylaxis, the most severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction, and the leading cause of death from food allergy in the US and other Western nations. Peanuts contain the same major allergenic proteins (called Ara h 1, 2, and 3) as tree nuts such as walnuts, cashews, and pistachios. About a third of persons with peanut allergy therefore have subsequent allergic reactions to tree nuts, so prevention is to avoid all nuts and foods containing nuts. Adults and caregivers of children who have peanut allergy should learn to recognize the early signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives, tongue swelling, throat tightening, vomiting, and shock) and have appropriate medications, including liquid diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and self-injectable epinephrine (Adrenaline), on hand at all times. It there is accidental peanut ingestion, these medications should be used immediately. Then the patient should go to an emergency room as soon as possible for further treatment and observation because of the risk of a second delayed reaction.