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Peanut allergies in Australia have been on the rise for the past 20 years, probably because of our higher consumption of processed food, giving us repeated exposure.
- Peanut allergy, like other types of food allergies, can illicit a range of reactions and in severe cases can result in anaphylaxis.
- Most children with a peanut allergy will have a reaction as a result of consumption, but there are some children whose sensitivity means that they can react if they touch something bearing traces of peanut, or inhale particles of peanut.
- If you suspect a peanut allergy in your child, you should consult a specialist who will recommend a skin prick test which will confirm the allergy.
- A peanut allergy is usually lifelong, however many children experience a lessening of symptoms as they mature.
Can I treat a peanut allergy?
- Like all food allergies, the way to deal with them is to totally avoid the trigger foods.
- If you suspect that your child is allergic to peanuts, consult your doctor immediately. As with most food allergies, repeated exposure to the trigger food can result in an increasing sensitivity resulting in stronger symptoms of an allergic reaction with each exposure.
- To avoid triggering an allergic reaction, you will need to check all food labels. Many commercially made chocolate products and baked goods contain traces of peanuts despite the fact that they don't appear to have peanuts in their main ingredients.
- It is now law in Australia that all food packaging must state if their contents contain nuts, or traces of nuts.
- As all contact with peanuts is hard to avoid, you need to be prepared (and prepare your child) for the possibility of an allergic reaction. Formulate an allergy treatment plan with your specialist and make sure that your child understands the seriousness of her allergy.
This article was written by Ella Walsh for Kidspot - Australia's parenting resource for newborns and baby. Sources include SA Government's Parenting and Child Health.
Last revised: Thursday, 19 June 2008
This article contains general information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.