Almond Allergy
Almond is a tree food rich in vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties, can lower blood sugar levels, helps control blood sugar, and helps in weight loss. Allergies to tree nuts and seeds tend to be more severe and can cause life-threatening strokes. Almond allergy is also a serious reaction. Almond allergy; It occurs as a result of labeling the protein in almonds as harmful. The immune system fights against the harmful substance and produces antibodies. In this case, the resulting reaction occurs. Almond allergy can occur in two types. In the first type; It occurs when a person comes into direct contact with almonds or comes into contact with products such as almond oil. This type of allergy has the potential to cause a serious, life-threatening reaction (anaphylaxis) that may include difficulty breathing. Second type of almond allergy; It initially interferes with birch pollen, a major cause of hay fever, and then reacts with almonds. This is because; A protein found in birch pollen has similarities with a protein found in almonds. This situation is called cross reaction. This movement is usually mild and involves crawling or swelling in the mouth. Affected individuals may also be slightly intolerant to foods such as peaches, hazelnuts, apples, carrots, and celery.
Almond Allergy Symptoms
Almond allergy has many symptoms. These symptoms vary from mild to severe.
Symptoms of almond allergy include:
- A general itching (in the eyes, mouth, skin),
- Regional rashes,
- Tingling in the mouth,
- Stomach ache,
- nasal congestion,
- Redness around the lips,
- facial swelling,
- Watery eyes,
- Headache,
- skin redness,
- Wheezing,
- skin rash,
- dizziness,
- Hypotension,
- lip swelling rapid heartbeat,
- throat swelling,
- swelling of the tongue,
- difficulty breathing,
- Constipation,
- feeling of discomfort,
- trouble sleeping,
- Diarrhea,
- hoarseness,
- Nausea or vomiting,
- runny nose,
- Sneeze,
- swallowing difficulties,
- Red eyes.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Almond Allergy
One of the most commonly used methods for diagnosing almond allergy is the skin prick test. In this test, a very small amount of an almond allergen is placed on your skin. Then, a small hole is made or scratched in your skin to allow this allergen to penetrate under the skin. This method is painless and gives accurate results in diagnosing almond allergies.
The area where the allergen is placed is observed for 15-20 minutes. If you experience redness or blistering in this area, it can be concluded that you are allergic to almonds. However, our allergist may try different tests and methods to confirm this test. Another method used to diagnose food allergies is a blood test. In the blood test, the antibody rate is checked. Allergy specialists are the most competent people who can definitively diagnose whether you have an almond allergy. Allergists are doctors who specialize in allergies and are experts in this field. The most effective method for treating almond allergy is to stay away from almonds and all foods containing almonds.
Your allergist may also want you to avoid all tree nuts. In some cases, your allergist may recommend using antihistamine medications to relieve uncomfortable symptoms of allergy. These medications relieve symptoms caused by an allergic reaction. Almond allergy may cause allergic shock. Allergic shock is a very serious condition and requires immediate intervention. Your doctor may prescribe an adrenaline auto-injector that can be used in these cases. Your allergist will provide you with training on the application method of the Adrenaline auto-injector and the situations in which it should be used.
