Almond Allergy Symptoms

Almonds and other tree nuts are great sources of nutrients, but for some people they can also cause allergic reactions that range from a mild rash to severe breathing difficulties. Such reactions typically occur within minutes to 2 hours after eating. Though outgrowing allergies is certainly possible, at least one study suggests that the odds favor persistence when it comes to tree nut allergies. If you are allergic to almonds, the more you know about your symptoms, the better you'll be able to partner with your physician and discuss your care.

Skin and Mouth

Symptoms involving the skin are the most typical reactions to food allergy that come to medical attention. These include hives or other types of itchy rashes and typically appear within an hour of exposure. Symptoms affecting the mouth are sometimes referred to as the oral allergy syndrome 4. The mouth and/or throat may feel itchy or tingly, and the tongue may also swell. These symptoms usually appear 5 to 10 minutes after eating an almond and typically occur in people who are also allergic to birch tree pollen. Such symptoms typically do not progress beyond the mouth.

Respiratory Tract and Gastrointestinal Systems

Respiratory tract symptoms typically include a stuffy, runny and/or itchy nose and may also involve sneezing. Gastrointestinal symptoms typically include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea. These symptoms usually occur soon after eating tree nuts.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a serious reaction that can be associated with allergy to tree nuts and peanuts. It can affect a person's breathing as well as circulation. Symptoms typically occur within a few minutes to a few hours of exposure and may include:

• throat tightness
  
• shortness of breath
  
• difficulty swallowing
  
• chest pain
  
• low blood pressure
  
• dizziness
  
• loss of consciousness

Without immediate medical treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

Warnings and Precautions

If you are allergic to almonds, consider avoiding all tree nuts because of potential cross-reactivity. Read food labels carefully, keeping in mind that manufacturers of nut-flavored alcoholic beverages are not required to include nuts in ingredient lists.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate emergency care. According to guidelines published in the January 2011 issue of "Nutrition Research," when confronted with an anaphylactic reaction, a person should try to remove the trigger if possible but also call 911. If using an epinephrine autoinjector, or EpiPen, administer epinephrine via the thigh muscle, following the manufacturer's instructions, prior to visiting the ER.