In fact, peanuts are the biggest cause of death from food allergies. Studies have found that allergens from peanuts served during flights can travel through ventilation system filters. Most people develop peanut allergies early in life. Children in particular are in danger of accidentally being exposed to peanuts. They may eat foods at school or at friends' houses that contain peanuts.
Few people grow out of peanut allergies, even in adulthood.
People who are allergic to peanuts, which are really legumes, often are also allergic to true nuts, such as walnuts and pecans. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say parents of children with peanut allergies need to be vigilant about avoiding nuts. Make sure your child's teachers and friends' parents are aware of the allergy and its severity. Prompt treatment with epenephrine can keep an allergy attack from being fatal. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional.