Tree nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, pecans and walnuts are hidden ingredients in countless processed foods. Without professional tree nut allergy care, you could be at risk of a severe reaction even from trace amounts. One of the most vital aspects of managing your allergy is to undergo testing with an Atlanta allergist. But what are the signs that tree nut allergy testing is necessary?
Top Reasons to Undergo Tree Nut Allergy Testing
Skin prick testing or blood testing are simple procedures, but the results can go a long way towards improving your health and well-being. With an accurate diagnosis from your allergist, you can take the appropriate steps to prevent allergic reactions.
You Have Symptoms After Eating Tree Nuts
Tree nut reactions typically occur within a few minutes to a couple of hours after consuming the food. Shortly after eating tree nuts you may experience swelling, hives, vomiting, wheezing and difficulty breathing. However, many people can’t be sure about the exact food that triggered the reaction, particularly when tree nuts are one of many ingredients in a recipe. Allergy testing can identify the exact allergen responsible for the reaction, and provide the information needed for a treatment plan.
You’re Unsure Which Tree Nut Caused a Reaction
There are many types of tree nuts that trigger reactions, such as walnuts, pecans, cashews, pistachios, almonds and hazelnuts. These nuts also come in various forms, including whole nuts, flour, paste or oil. Skin prick testing can evaluate the various tree nuts to see how your immune system responds.
Your Child Has a Suspected Reaction to Tree Nuts
Most tree nut allergies first show up in early childhood, typically before age 5. While they can certainly begin later in childhood, it’s less common. When your child experiences a reaction after eating tree nuts (or a meal potentially containing them as an ingredient), testing can ensure they receive the proper allergy care.
You’re Avoiding All Tree Nuts Without a Diagnosis
Avoiding exposure to any suspected allergen after a reaction is an effective approach, but this should be followed up with a visit to your allergist for a professional diagnosis. In reality, many people remove all tree nuts from their diet to stay safe, and just don’t get tested. However, over-restricting your nutritional intake makes it harder to manage an allergy, and can lead to missing out on important nutrients.
You’re Considering Oral Immunotherapy for a Tree Nut Allergy
Oral immunotherapy involves consuming manageable amounts of a food allergen to lessen immune system sensitivity over time. By increasing doses gradually, your body can tolerate greater amounts of the food without a reaction as time passes. Before beginning treatment, you will need allergy testing at your Atlanta allergist’s office for an accurate diagnosis.
Talk to Us About Tree Nut Allergy Testing in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is a trusted provider of allergy testing and treatment services. Visit one of our Atlanta-area treatment centers for expert tree nut allergy care. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment.
