The best way to prevent future attacks is to avoid allergens that trigger allergic reactions and seek treatment with our board-certified allergist for these allergies.
Tree Nut Allergy
What is it?
Tree nut allergy is one of the most common food allergies in children and adults. Tree nuts can cause a severe, potentially fatal, allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Medical experts advise that people with a tree nut allergy have quick access to an epinephrine auto-injector at all times. To prevent a reaction, strict avoidance of tree nuts and tree nut products is essential. Always read ingredient labels to identify tree nut ingredients.
What causes it?
An allergy to tree nuts tends to be lifelong; recent studies have shown that approximately 9 percent of children with a tree nut allergy eventually outgrow their allergy. Younger siblings of children who are allergic to tree nuts may be at increased risk for allergy to tree nuts. Your doctor can provide guidance about testing for siblings.
Tree nuts include, but are not limited to, walnut, almond, hazelnut, cashew, pistachio, and Brazil nuts. These are not to be confused or grouped together with peanut, which is a legume, or seeds, such as sunflower or sesame.
A person with an allergy to one type of tree nut has a higher chance of being allergic to other types. Therefore, many experts advise patients with allergy to tree nuts to avoid all nuts. Patients may also be advised to also avoid peanuts because of the higher likelihood of cross-contact with tree nuts during manufacturing and processing.
How is it treated?
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