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Tree nuts (such as almonds, pecans, cashews, Brazil nuts, walnuts and pistachios) are among the most common triggers of allergic reactions. To protect yourself from a severe reaction you must first accurately identify the specific allergen causing your symptoms, then undergo comprehensive tree nut allergy treatment. Proper diagnosis is the first step towards successful management. But how does an Atlanta allergist diagnose a tree nut allergy?
What Are the Best Ways to Confirm I Have a Tree Nut Allergy?
Diagnosing a tree nut allergy involves a series of steps to accurately identify the specific allergens responsible for causing reactions. If you have a tree nut allergy, here’s what you must know to investigate and confirm which nuts are the triggers.
Keep a Food Diary
Get into the habit of documenting the food you eat and beverages you drink each day. Note the times you eat or drink, and of course, make note of any symptoms that appear, even if seemingly mild. If you have a tree nut allergy, you may discover that certain foods you enjoy actually contain nuts in their list of ingredients.
Pay Attention to Tree Nut Allergy Symptoms
Tree nut allergy symptoms can range from mild itching or stomach pain to dizziness and severe breathing difficulties. Tree nut allergy symptoms will be mild to moderate for most people; in other words, an anaphylactic event would be rare. However, those mild symptoms absolutely should be noted, as they can help an allergist rule out or diagnose an allergy.
Get Tested for a Tree Nut Allergy
In identifying a tree nut allergy, food allergy testing is the most important part of the process. As we discussed in our facts about food allergy testing, an allergist has several approaches available. Whether it’s skin prick testing, blood testing or the oral food challenge, each method will provide important data that contributes to accurately diagnosing a tree nut allergy.
Review Medical History
Examined in conjunction with results from testing, a person’s medical history can reveal key information to help confirm a tree nut allergy. Make sure you disclose details such as previous allergy tests, allergy treatments, hospital visits related to allergic reactions, any other known allergies, chronic conditions (like asthma or eczema) and so on. Additionally, inform your allergist if you have close family members with a history of allergies.
Get a Tree Nut Allergy Action Plan
After completing these steps, your allergist can confirm whether or not you have a tree nut allergy. If so, you will receive a customized allergy action plan and be able to monitor its effectiveness. The best allergy treatments will protect you from a severe allergic reaction while allowing you to get the necessary nutrients and maintain a healthy diet.
Atlanta’s Top Provider of Tree Nut Allergy Testing and Treatment
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center offers allergy testing and treatment at locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. If you are concerned about a tree nut allergy, speak with our team today. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.