Peanut Allergies - demographic reports

Pediatrics for Parents, July, 1999

It seems that everywhere there are reports about peanut allergies. Schools are becoming peanut-free and airlines are removing peanuts from their in-flight snacks. A recent study tried to determine just how common peanut and tree nut allergies are.

A survey of over 12,000 people living in New York, Virginia, and Arkansas found that 164 (1.1% of the total) of reported having an allergy to either peanuts or tree nuts. Almost half of those with an allergy reported having five or more reactions. Only haft of these people had seen a physician about their allergy. These allergies were most common in adults than in children.

The severity of an allergic reaction may vary over time. The reaction may remain mild for a while and then, without any warning, the next reaction may be severe and possibly life threatening. For example, a child's allergic reaction may be mild skin redness and then, for no apparent reason, the next time he may experience severe breathing problems.

If you suspect your child has allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, or other foods, you should have your child seen by a physician with experience in diagnosing and treating allergies. If the diagnosis is made, then be sure your child understands the diagnosis, the possible severe consequences of an allergic reaction, and how to use an Epipen, a device that automatically injections adrenalin. (In the above study, only 7% of those with allergies carried an Epipen.)

The consequences of a misdiagnosis of peanut or other food allergies can be almost as significant as an accurate diagnosis. The impact on the child's life -- avoiding foods his friend's eat, developing a fear of certain foods, and the possible ostracizing by friends -- may be significant.

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 4/99.