Walnut Allergy Symptoms

Nut allergies are very common. Many people are allergic to almonds, cashew, walnuts, hazel etc. Peanuts are not really nuts but are legumes that are grown underground. Knowing some of the walnut allergy symptoms is better to get diagnosed early.

One can develop an allergy to nuts at any point in one’s life, but it is more likely to occur when one is three years old. If one is allergic to one type of nut, then it is possible that one may be allergic to other nuts as well.

The immune system reacts to the allergen present in nuts. For example, if one suffers from peanut allergy, he or she may also suffer from soya bean allergy.

Symptoms of walnut allergy

A walnut allergy might cause mild to severe symptoms. It can affect various parts of the body.

Skin Symptoms

• Itchy or swollen mouth, lips, or tongue.
• Hives: raised, itchy bumps on the skin.
• Eczema: redness or inflammation on the skin.

Digestive Issues

• Stomach cramps or pain.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Diarrhea, which can dehydrate if severe.

Breathing Problems

• Runny or blocked nose.
• Persistent sneezing or coughing.
• Wheezing or trouble catching your breath.

Severe Reactions: Anaphylaxis

• Rapid or weak heartbeat.
• Throat swelling that blocks airways.
• Dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness.

Key Facts

• Even small walnut traces can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
• Nut allergies affect over 2 million people in the UK alone.
• Common hidden sources include baked goods, chocolates, and sauces.

Causes of Walnut allergy

Walnut allergies occur when the immune system mistakes certain walnut proteins as harmful. This triggers an allergic response. Key proteins like Jug r 1, Jug r 2, Jug r 3, and Jug r 4 often cause these reactions. (allergypreventions.com)

When exposed to these proteins, the immune system produces IgE antibodies. These antibodies recognize the proteins as threats and release histamine, causing symptoms. (webmd.com)

Cross-reactivity can make walnut allergies worse. People allergic to tree pollens may also react to walnuts due to similar protein structures. This condition is called Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). (en.wikipedia.org)

Genetics can influence walnut allergies. A family history of allergies increases the risk, showing a hereditary link. (en.wikipedia.org)

Tree nut allergies, including walnuts, are among the most common food allergies. Around 10% of individuals may outgrow them, but most remain lifelong. (verywellhealth.com)

Understanding these causes can help manage walnut allergies better. Avoiding walnuts and recognizing cross-reactivity risks can prevent reactions.

Prevention and treatment of walnut allergy

• Avoid foods that contain walnuts such as some chocolates are made of walnut
• Desensitization, for instance, children can be given walnuts very early in their diet. In case the pregnant mother has eaten walnut during pregnancy, then the baby who is born may suffer from walnut allergy when the mother breast feeds
• In case the child is suffering from other allergies such as eczema or asthma, then they are more likely to develop walnut allergy
• One must avoid direct contact with walnut
• One must avoid oils or sprays made of nuts
• In case the attack is severe, then one has to carry adrenalin with them
• It is also better to wear a medical identification band in case the attack is very severe
• In case the reaction is mild, then the physician can prescribe an antihistamine

How is walnut allergy diagnosed?

Blood tests, as well as skin prick tests, are conducted by allergists.

One must get oneself treated for a walnut allergy. Walnut allergy differs from peanut allergy, as the latter does not belong to the nut family.