When it comes to a food allergy, it is basically an adverse reaction to certain foods that is instigated by the immune response. Almond is a type of tree nut which are one of the most common triggers together with soy, eggs, milk, peanuts, wheat, shellfish and fish. Food allergy among infants can be difficult to detect since they are unable to express what they feel or explain the symptoms experienced. An almond allergy initially develops once an infant is given a food product that contains almonds and initiates the release of immunoglobulin E antibodies as a response. When the infant is exposed to almonds again, the IgE reacts to the protein and releases histamine that triggers an allergic reaction. Even though infants are not usually given almonds directly, almonds are usually present in other foods such as salad dressings, salads, breading on meat, sauces, vegetarian burgers, pancakes, fish fishes, pasta, seasonings and pie crusts.
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What are the types?
An apparent indication of an almond allergy in infants involves the skin. These include reactions such as redness, hives or swelling. Coughing, sneezing, wheezing and difficulty breathing are indications that an allergic reaction is progressing.
An infant can also vomit yet this can be difficult to detect if the infant usually spits up after meals. In most cases, the cry of the infant is high-pitched or the tone of voice changes. This is an indication that the airway is constricted as a part of the allergic reaction. Even though only one or many of these symptoms can occur, the reaction usually occurs minutes to an hour after being exposed to almonds.
Risk factors
Infants face a higher risk for ending up with the symptoms of almond allergy since foods allergies are typically common among infants and toddlers. Other allergies such as to peanuts, soy, eggs or other tree nuts will put an infant at risk for developing symptoms of almond allergy. In addition, a family member with allergies or has eczema will also put an infant at risk for developing almond allergy.
Diagnosis
Description of the symptoms and their occurrence can help the doctor determine whether it is an actually an almond allergy. If the concern of this allergy is high, a skin prick test can be carried out for proper diagnosis. During this test, a small amount of the allergen is introduced into the surface of the skin. After the span of 20 minutes, the reaction of the skin to the allergen is measured. As for a blood test, it is carried out to measure the level of IgE to the allergen.
Treatment
The symptoms of an almond allergy can range from minor to life-threatening. Even if the primary reaction is only mild, it is vital to consider that a future reaction can be life-threatening. The initial step in the treatment is full avoidance of the almonds including foods that might contain almonds. It is vital to carefully read all food labels. If you want to learn how to manage an allergic reaction, click here.
In some cases, the doctor will recommend that the infant should not be introduced to other potentially allergenic foods until a later age. In addition, an injectable epinephrine might be prescribed which is used during a reaction due to unintentional exposure.