Macadamia Nut Allergy Symptoms and Diagnosis

Macadamia Nut Allergy Symptoms and Diagnosis

macadamia-allergy

According to experts chances of outgrowing macadamia nut allergy is very low. However, with prevent measures you can refrain the allergic symptoms.

It has been classified as tree nut allergy. Hypersensitive people who’re allergic to tree nuts may experience identical symptoms with macadamia nut. This rare allergy is estimated less than 5% of tree nut allergies.

Proteins residing in these tree nuts are mistakenly treated as harmful by your immune system, which then releases antibodies to combat them. Chemical reaction triggers within protein substances, mast cells and histamines produced by immune system resulting in allergic symptoms.

Macadamia Nut Allergy Symptoms

Cases of this rare tree nut allergy symptom are gradually increasing due to its frequent use in food products.

Allergic reaction triggers within minutes or hours of consuming macadamia nut or products that include the nut. Mild to moderate signs of reaction can be seen, anyhow in rare cases severe allergic symptoms can occur.

  • Tingling sensation on tongue
  • Chest tightness
  • Pain in chest
  • Oral allergy syndrome
  • Flushing
  • Dizziness
  • Itching
  • Swelling of tongue and hands
  • Throat swelling
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Dyspnoea
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Hives
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Rapid pulse rate
  • Unconsciousness
  • Anaphylaxis

Symptoms vary from person to person. If you experience any of the above mentioned signs after ingesting macadamia nut, then consult allergist or dermatologist immediately for diagnosis.

Diagnosis

If you’re worried about any particular food allergy, then don’t judge yourself. Get diagnosed, physician will conduct skin prick test to determine the availability of particular antibodies.

You can’t permanently cure food allergy. However, you can reduce its symptoms by avoiding the allergic food substance.

As usage of nuts are increasing day to day in many food products. Hypersensitive people must check the ingredients listed out and discuss with allergist before marking it safe.

Cross reactivity has been registered between hazelnut and macadamia nut. So, if you’re allergic to any of the tree or peanuts, it’s good to discuss with allergist. There are many cases where cross reactivity stimulated food allergy.

People with severe signs of macadamia nut allergy need immediate medical attention.

Image source