Peanut allergy in babies: Symptoms you must watch out for

Peanut allergy in babies is a common cause of allergy attacks. For some babies, the allergy attack might not be that serious, however, for many even a tiny amount can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Even if your kid has a mild reaction to peanuts or peanut-based products, it is very important to consult a healthcare provider as there are still risks of a more severe reaction in the future.

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Peanut allergy symptoms in babies

Symptoms can include rashes, wheezing, diarrhea, and more. (Image via Freepik)

Peanut allergy in babies usually starts within a few minutes after consuming or touching it. However, in some cases, allergic reactions can occur 4 to 5 hours after exposure.

Some mild to moderate peanut allergy symptoms in babies include:

• a lumpy rash
• hives
• facial swelling
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea

In many cases, peanut allergy in babies can be life-threatening and the following are some severe symptoms you must watch out for:

• wheezing
• difficulty breathing
• weak pulse
• difficulty swallowing food or water
• tight throat
• severe cough
• dizziness
• irritation
• blueish skin
• tongue swelling
• hoarse voice
• loss of consciousness

In some cases, peanut allergy in babies can also lead to anaphylaxis. It is a serious allergic reaction that causes trouble during breathing or blood circulation.

Allergic reactions to peanuts will include one or more of the aforementioned symptoms and it’s also possible that several symptoms will occur at the same time.

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How common is peanut allergy in babies?

An allergic reaction to peanuts in babies is common. (Image via Freepik)

Peanut allergy is one of the most common allergic reactions among children. It is estimated that in the US, about 2.5 percent of children have an allergy to peanuts and peanut-based products. In fact, many schools do not allow children to bring peanuts and peanut-based food products for their lunch.

It is important to note that a kid with a peanut allergy will experience one or more of the above-discussed symptoms within minutes of consuming food products containing peanuts.

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What causes peanut allergy in babies?

Peanut allergy can happen due to direct contact, cross-contact or inhalation. (Image via Pexels/Yan Krukau)

The major cause is when the immune system does not identify peanut protein and mistakes it for something dangerous. This, as a result, causes the immune system to eliminate chemicals known as histamine into the bloodstream, which later, leads to a variety of symptoms, including wheezing, vomiting, coughing, difficulty swallowing, and so on.

Peanut allergy can happen in various ways, including exposure to peanuts through direct contact, cross-contact, or inhalation.

Direct contact: This is the most common cause of peanut allergy in babies which occurs when they consume peanuts or peanut-based foods like peanut butter or jelly.

Cross contact: This type of allergic reaction happens when a food gets exposed to peanuts during packaging or processing.

Inhalation: This occurs when the baby inhales dust containing peanuts. The source could be peanut oil spray or flour.

In rare cases, skin contact with peanuts can lead to peanut allergy in babies.

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Treatment for peanut allergy

Treatment can include using an EpiPen. (Image via Pexels/CDC)

Peanut allergy treatment mainly involves keeping the baby away from foods that contain peanuts and may cause reactions. It also involves knowing how to identify a peanut allergy when it’s taking place and being absolutely ready to take steps to alleviate it.

The best treatment for peanut allergy in babies is prevention, meaning avoiding nuts and nut-based foods completely. Some common sources of peanuts that must be avoided include:

• cookies and biscuits
• ice cream
• breakfast cereals
• dried fruits
• chocolate spreads
• oil

If it is confirmed that your child has a peanut allergy, make sure you always carry an epinephrine auto-injector also called EpiPen with you. It is important to use EpiPen as soon as an allergic reaction begins. This medicine works as an adrenaline, which helps the body manage allergic responses.