Nötallergi

Nötallergi, commonly referred to as nut allergy, is an immune system overreaction to certain nuts. This allergy can manifest in a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe and potentially life-threatening. The most common nuts that trigger allergic reactions include peanuts, tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios, among others.

Symptoms of a nut allergy can appear within minutes to a couple of hours after ingestion or even skin contact with the allergen. These may include skin reactions like hives, itching, or eczema, digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and respiratory problems like wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath. In severe cases, a nut allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a rapid and dangerous allergic reaction that can cause a drop in blood pressure, airway constriction, and loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis of nut allergy is typically made through a combination of medical history, skin prick tests, and sometimes blood tests to detect specific IgE antibodies. For individuals diagnosed with a nut allergy, strict avoidance of the offending nuts and any products containing them is crucial. Reading food labels carefully is essential as nuts can be hidden ingredients in many processed foods.

Management of nut allergy primarily involves carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Education for the individual, their family, and caregivers about the allergy, its symptoms, and emergency procedures is paramount. While some children may outgrow certain nut allergies, many persist into adulthood. Research into immunotherapy for nut allergies is ongoing, offering potential future treatment options.