Peanut allergies are dangerous due to the small amount of peanut protein needed to trigger a reaction, which can be life-threatening. It is difficult to eliminate all traces of peanuts, making it challenging for sufferers to avoid exposure. Some institutions have instituted peanut-free policies to reduce the risk of severe reactions.
Any food allergy can be a cause for concern, but severe peanut allergies appear to be especially dangerous for a variety of reasons. Peanuts and peanut-derived products are very popular with consumers, making it nearly impossible to eliminate all traces of peanut protein from a specific area. Those with the most severe form of allergy can experience reactions just by touching a telephone or a doorknob with even the slightest trace of peanut residue. Airborne peanut dust can also trigger a violent allergic reaction.
The exceptionally small amount of peanut material needed to trigger an allergic reaction is one reason such allergies are considered dangerous. Not everyone with peanut allergies is so sensitive, but those who are can suddenly go into anaphylactic shock within minutes of exposure to peanut products. They may also have an outbreak of hives, a painful irritation brought on by allergens. Anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause the tissues around the upper airways to swell. This often creates a life-threatening inability to breathe normally.
Since there is no known cure for peanut allergies, this threat of a severe allergic reaction and/or anaphylaxis is always present for sufferers. A typical day at work or school can be very challenging, as many products and materials contain traces of peanuts or may have had accidental contact with peanut products. A person with severe allergies can scrupulously avoid any food containing peanuts, but still come in contact with any number of other sources. The result could be a potentially fatal allergic reaction if medical intervention is not available.
Only a very small percentage of the general population suffers from the most severe form of peanut allergy, but some people can have undiagnosed sensitivities and suffer many of the same problems after exposure. Using a self-injection pen containing epinephrine can address the immediate symptoms of the allergy, but a person with a severe allergy might have another outbreak of symptoms several hours later.
Due to the risk of a severe allergic reaction, many public institutions and travel industries have instituted peanut-free policies. A number of public schools no longer serve peanut butter sandwiches or other foods containing peanuts, as young children are more likely to develop severe peanut allergies. Many airlines have also stopped offering peanut products as snacks on flights, mainly because a passenger with severe peanut allergies could have a medical emergency while the plane is in the air. Foods containing peanuts or tree nuts must have a warning on the label.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
