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What are the common symptoms of peanut allergies?
Common symptoms of peanut allergies include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, and anaphylaxis, which is a severe, life-threatening reaction. Symptoms can occur within minutes of exposure to peanuts, making it crucial for parents to recognize these signs early.
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How can parents identify and manage peanut allergies in children?
Parents can identify peanut allergies through allergy testing and by monitoring their child's reactions to peanuts. Management involves avoiding peanuts and peanut products, reading food labels carefully, and having an emergency action plan in place, including access to epinephrine auto-injectors.
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What role does genetics play in peanut allergies?
Genetics can influence the likelihood of developing peanut allergies. Children with a family history of allergies are at a higher risk. However, environmental factors, such as exposure to air pollution, also significantly contribute to the development of these allergies.
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Are there any new treatments for peanut allergies?
Recent advancements in treatment include oral immunotherapy, where patients consume small amounts of peanuts to build tolerance over time. Research is ongoing, and new therapies are being developed to help manage peanut allergies more effectively.
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How does air pollution affect peanut allergies?
A recent study indicates that high levels of air pollution may increase the risk of developing peanut allergies in children. Air pollutants can trigger an overreaction of the immune system, leading to allergic responses. This highlights the importance of improving air quality to protect children's health.
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What can be done to reduce the risk of peanut allergies?
To reduce the risk of peanut allergies, parents can introduce peanuts to their child's diet at an early age, as recommended by pediatricians. Additionally, minimizing exposure to air pollution and ensuring good indoor air quality can also help lower the risk.