Hazelnut allergy is one of the most common tree nut allergies. This tree nut appears similar to acorns when out of their shell and capable of triggering the usual symptoms of food allergies that range from mild to severe.
The symptoms usually occur within 2 hours of consuming the hazelnuts or any food that contains the tree nuts and might include the following:
- Hives or eczema
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Wheezing, runny nose or coughing
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Angioedema or swelling of the tongue, lips or face
- Anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate care
Connection between hazelnut and birch pollen allergy
Oral allergy syndrome is considered as a form of food allergy in which an individual sensitive to specific types of pollen react to certain foods that are related to the pollens. When it comes to hazelnuts, many individuals with birch pollen also react to the hazelnuts.
The indications of oral allergy syndrome to hazelnut are typically limited to itchiness, tingling or swelling of the tongue, lips and throat. Take note that these symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter antihistamine. When an antihistamine is used, an individual with this condition must be monitored during the next few hours to ensure that serious allergic symptoms will not develop.
Occasionally, some individuals who have oral allergy syndrome can end up with severe reactions that might include rashes, delayed digestive symptoms such as diarrhea or abdominal cramping as well as anaphylaxis in rare circumstances. The severe, systemic reactions entail immediate treatment using epinephrine.
Management
Remember that there is no cure for hazelnut allergy. The management usually involves avoidance of hazelnuts and being prepared to deal with future reactions.
A doctor or allergist must be consulted if the individual experiences any symptoms after ingesting or directly touching the tree nut. An individual might require allergy testing to determine the severity of the reaction as well as check if he/she has allergies to other tree nuts.
Do I need an auto-injectable epinephrine?
Some individuals who have oral allergy syndrome only have localized reactions that have been treated effectively using antihistamines. Nevertheless, the doctor might prescribe an auto-injector epinephrine in case a severe reaction occurs in the future. The injector must be carried by the individual at all times.
Life with hazelnut allergy
Always bear in mind that nuts are included as one of the common food allergies. With this in mind, food manufacturers are required to list down nuts on the ingredient list. The individual should also learn how to recognize foods that usually contain nuts.
When eating outside, the individual should stay safe by asking the server regarding the ingredients used.