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Peanut Allergy Symptoms in Children

Peanut allergies in children are on the rise. Symptoms range from mild to severe and most children with peanut allergies do not outgrow them. According to The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, only 20 percent of those diagnosed with food allergies will outgrow them. There are several common symptoms of peanut allergies in children.

  1. Skin Reactions

    • A child with a peanut allergy may break out in hives, a red itchy rash, have eczema, or experience swelling and redness around the mouth and face after eating peanuts. Skin reactions are among the most common type of symptom. An antihistamine, like Benedryl, can be helpful in treating mild skin reactions, like hives.

    Gastrointestinal Reactions

    • Peanut allergies can also cause gastrointestinal problems. Children with peanut allergies may experience cramping, bloating, vomiting and/or diarrhea after ingesting peanuts.

    Respiratory Symptoms

    • Respiratory symptoms may be mild and include a runny, stuffy nose, itchy, watery eyes and sneezing. More severe respiratory symptoms may be coughing and wheezing or shortness of breath. Being exposed to peanuts may also trigger an asthma attack in a peanut allergic child.

    Anaphylaxis

    • The most severe reaction in a child with peanut allergies can be a life threatening one. Anaphylactic shock involves swelling of the mouth, lips or throat and a drop in blood pressure resulting in difficulty in breathing and loss of consciousness. If this occurs, call 911 immediately. If a child has a severe peanut allergy, he will most likely be prescribed an epinephrine pen that should be carried at all times in case of an emergency.

    Other Information

    • At present there is no cure for peanut allergies. The best way to avoid a reaction is to avoid peanuts altogether. Some children with peanut allergies only have a reaction if they eat something containing peanuts, but some cannot come in contact with peanuts or peanut butter in any way. If your child is diagnosed with a peanut allergy, read food labels to avoid anything containing peanuts and possibly tree nuts, as they often cause similar reactions.

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