An allergic reaction to almonds can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the severity of the allergy. Mild symptoms may include watery eyes, a slight rash, or nasal congestion. More serious signs of an allergy may involve itching, hives, or difficulty breathing. A severe reaction can be life threatening and may include swelling of the face or throat, an inability to breathe, and a partial or total loss of consciousness. Any potential allergy symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency, as they can become fatal within a matter of minutes.
In most cases, an allergic reaction to almonds causes some sort of skin problem. This may involve the appearance of a rash that may or may not itch or redness around the mouth after consuming a product containing this culinary nut. A type of rash known as hives may develop and involves raised, reddened areas of skin that may itch or burn. Those with a mild allergy to almonds may develop a skin condition known as eczema.
A drop in blood pressure may also occur, causing the patient to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, cramping, or diarrhea, may occur as well. These symptoms may not be easily associated with an allergy to almonds unless a medical professional orders allergy tests or more severe symptoms develop.
People who are allergic to almonds often have respiratory symptoms as well. In milder cases, this may involve itchy, watery eyes or nasal congestion. A runny nose, sneezing, or a worsening of asthma symptoms may also occur. If breathing becomes difficult or painful, a more severe type of allergic reaction may be the cause, and emergency medical assistance is crucial.
Anaphylaxis is a medical term used to describe a severe and potentially life-threatening type of allergic reaction. Symptoms may begin with itching, a rash, and swelling of the lips. The tongue and throat may then begin to swell, causing breathing to become difficult or even impossible. Without immediate medical treatment, the loss of oxygen to the body can cause permanent brain damage or death within a matter of minutes. For this reason, those with a diagnosed allergy to almonds may be prescribed an injectible medication known as epinephrine, which is designed to be used as a life-saving emergency treatment in the event that anaphylaxis occurs.