Do you know when you should seek treatment for your peanut allergy (PA)? According to an article published by NCBI, peanut allergies affect approximately 2% of the population in western nations—that’s almost 23 million people! Because people (and their immune systems) are unique, the symptoms of those people may show up differently. Whether your body’s allergic response is mild or more moderate, let’s review when to seek the help of a specially trained food allergist.
Peanut Allergy Reactions and Symptoms
There are many possible symptoms of peanut allergy, and depending on your immune system’s response, there are also various levels of severity. If you are sensitive, when you come in contact with peanut proteins your body will experience an adverse reaction, either immediately or within a short period of time. A few of the allergic reactions that can occur are listed below, (but there are more).
- Hives, flushed ski or swelling
- Face, tongue or lip swelling
- Abdominal cramps, diarrhea or vomiting
- Coughing or wheezing
- Trouble breathing
Persistent coughing, swelling of the throat, and trouble swallowing or breathing may be a sign of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction which can be counteracted by an epinephrine injection. To determine the severity of your symptoms and to get personalized help, you’ll also want to get allergy testing.
Reasons to Get Peanut Allergy Testing
Some people actually have a food sensitivity rather than a full-blown peanut allergy, and some effective testing methods can identify which one you’re experiencing. It’s good to know which allergy tests are the best for diagnosing your specific food allergy, so that you can receive a treatment plan that’s personalized specifically for you.
Sometimes people with PA also experience other food allergies or sensitivities. Testing allows your provider to learn more about your specific allergy and immune system needs.
More and more these days, trace amounts of peanuts or other major food allergens (sesame, for example) appear in our food products. Even with vigilant monitoring and avoidance practices, it’s still estimated that up to 14% of people with peanut allergy experience accidental exposure each year and need treatment. To learn whether you are allergic or sensitive to peanuts it’s imperative that you get allergy testing, it could save your life.
Treatment Options for Peanut Allergy Patients
When you notice any of the adverse reactions listed above, no matter how mild it may be initially, that’s the time to seek out professional peanut allergy treatment. In most cases these allergies do not go away on their own, and as with any food allergy, it’s important not to downplay or ignore your peanut allergy symptoms.
There are multiple treatments available now, including oral immunotherapy (OIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). A personalized treatment plan including one of these therapies can be life-changing for you or your child. They can reduce food-related anxiety and keep you safe as you enjoy meals and snacks.
Get Help for Your Peanut Allergy in McKinney and Southlake
TexasAllergyMD is here to support you at our North Texas allergy treatment centers in McKinney/Prosper or Southlake. Request an appointment now, or call us at (469) 375-1525.
