Are you or your loved one allergic to tree nuts?
What are tree nuts and how serious are Tree Nut Allergies? Can it be cured?
Tree nuts are nuts that grow on trees. This includes Brazil nuts, almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, pine nuts, and walnuts.
Tree nuts are one of the most common allergens, affecting 0.5 - 1% of the US population. You can be allergic to only one or multiple tree nuts, as some are more closely related than others.
While tree nut allergy can not be cured, about 10% of those who have a tree nut allergy when they are younger are able to outgrow it into adulthood. This is true, especially for children with a mild tree nut allergy.
Allergic reactions to tree nuts can be very severe and some are even life-threatening, so one with tree allergy must be very careful about what they consume or are in contact with. Anaphylaxis is rare but it is the most severe form of allergic response. Aside from tree nuts, peanuts and shellfish are the most common cause of anaphylaxis. Read the label carefully for the “nut-free” sign. The food manufacturer may change their process from time to time, do not assume a safe food will always be safe. Carefully read the label each time when you buy "nut-free" products. There are also hidden sources of tree nut protein one needs to watch out for, certain desserts, beverages, cheese, even personal care products may contain sources of tree nuts.