Peanut allergy symptoms occur when body’s immune system mistakenly thinks that a harmless product like peanut is harmful for the body. As a result, the immune system reacts by releasing a chemical called histamine.The release of histamines can result in a number of irregularities in different functions of the body which includes the respiratory system, the dermatological system, the intestinal system and even in some cases, the cardiovascular system.

Reaction to a product like peanut can be different in different people. The intensity of the reactions depends on a number of factors like the individuals sensitivity towards peanut and also the quantity of peanut that was eaten by that individual. Even in some cases same individual may experience different reactions at different occurrences. Peanut allergy symptoms may range from mild to very serious. Some people may only experience a mild reaction involving only one system of the body; while in some instances the reactions can be very severe and may involve all the function of the body. In most cases the symptoms does not even last a whole day.

The Peanut allergy symptoms may include the following reactions:
Skin Reactions: Skin reactions are the most common symptoms of peanut allergy. The skin problems may include

• Itching and rashes in different parts of the body
• Redness and flushing
• Hives
• Eczema
• Swelling of lips mouth and face
• Allergic shiners

Gastrointestinal Reactions: Peanut allergy symptoms can take the form of a number of intestinal disorders causing the patient a lot of difficulties: The gastrointestinal reactions to peanut may include:

• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal cramps and bloating
• Vomiting
• Gas
• Nausea

Respiratory Reactions: An individual with peanut allergy symptoms may experience a number of respiratory problems. The symptoms are:

• Repeated sneezing
• Coughing
• Watery eyes
• Running nose
• Nasal congestion and post nasal drip
• Shortness of breath and wheezing
• Allergic asthma

Anaphylaxis: In some rare cases the peanut allergy symptoms are not restricted to the above listed symptoms alone. A very dangerous and potentially fatal condition called Anaphylaxis may attack a few individuals with a very deep sensitivity to peanuts. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency involving a number of bodily functions including the cardiovascular system .The symptoms of Anaphylaxis may include:

• Swelling of tongue, throat and the airways leading to the lungs. This results in the patient’s inability to breathe normally
• Sudden drop in blood pressure level
• Light headedness
• Feeling of numbness in various limbs
• Dizziness
• Loss of consciousness

Anaphylaxis can appear very suddenly and can develop from a very small quantity of peanut. Again it is generally found that peanut allergy is a life long problem. Children who are sensitive to peanuts will have to deal with the symptoms throughout their lives.