Peanut Allergy: A Lifelong Threat to Take Seriously
Early introduction in infancy reduces later allergy.
Dr. Sophie Renard
Allergist
In simple terms
Peanut allergy affects 1-2% of children in Western countries. Two adrenaline injectors should be available at all times.
What you need to remember
- Diagnosis — Specific IgE and component testing (Ara h 2) help confirm true allergy versus sensitisation.
- Emergency action — Adrenaline (intramuscular thigh) is first-line for any suspected anaphylaxis.
- Prevention — LEAP and EAT studies showed introducing peanut foods between 4-11 months sharply reduces peanut allergy in at-risk infants.
Hives, lip/tongue swelling, throat tightness, wheezing, abdominal pain, vomiting, hypotension. Symptoms can appear within minutes.
Diagnosis
Specific IgE and component testing (Ara h 2) help confirm true allergy versus sensitisation. Oral food challenge is the gold standard.
Emergency action
Adrenaline (intramuscular thigh) is first-line for any suspected anaphylaxis. Antihistamines are not a substitute.
Prevention
LEAP and EAT studies showed introducing peanut foods between 4-11 months sharply reduces peanut allergy in at-risk infants.
Oral immunotherapy is now an option for selected children to reduce the severity of reactions to accidental exposure.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Immune system
- Your body's defence team: cells that fight germs and repair damage.
- Prevention
- Steps taken before a problem starts, to make it less likely.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Peanut Allergy: A Lifelong Threat to Take Seriously?
- Peanut allergy affects 1-2% of children in Western countries. Two adrenaline injectors should be available at all times.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Peanut Allergy: A Lifelong Threat to Take Seriously?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Peanut Allergy: A Lifelong Threat to Take Seriously?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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