Hazelnut Allergy

Hypersensitivity type may be- Type I Allergy
Immune reactions may be from- IgE
Reactions may occur in- Minutes

A Hazelnut Allergy is an immune response from consuming or inhaling substances containing the proteins found in Hazelnuts.

Classified as a tree nut, hazelnuts are a true botanical nut and part of the Birch family (Betulaceae). As the Hazelnut is grown on a tree in the Birch family people who have a Pollen Allergy to Birch can experience Oral Allergy Syndrome.

HAZELNUTS are a Tree Nut, which are one of the 10 most common food allergens in Australia, that all together account for 90% of food allergies in Australia.

SYMPTOMS

Some of the symptoms may be characterised by:

• Stomach pain
• Stomach cramps
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Trouble swallowing
• Itching of the mouth, throat, eyes, skin or any other area
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Nausea
• Urticaria/ Hives
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Asthma aggravation
• ANAPHYLAXIS

The validity and severity of these symptoms are dependent on the individual and the level of exposure, as determined by a qualified health care provider. The symptoms also vary for an allergy to Hazelnuts and Oral Allergy Syndrome. 

Some words (but not all) used to list hazelnuts on an ingredient label are- Hazelnut, Hazelnut oil, Corylus avellana, Corylus avellana seed oil, Corylus avellana (hazel) seed oil, Corylus avellana seed oil (Hazelnut seed oil).

If you're unsure, ask the place you're at or the manufacturer.  

TREATMENT

If you experience or are in the presence of someone that encounters an immediate serious reaction (this may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightening, swelling, collapse, etc), call or have someone call triple zero (000) immediately.

In the case of a minor allergic reaction, people may use Antihistamines along with other medications based on their individual symptoms and prescribed treatments.

For severe allergic reactions Epinephrine may be used, followed by seeking emergency medical attention. However, some people may not be able to use Epinephrine due to particular reasons.

It’s important for anyone with an Allergy, to discuss treatments with a qualified health care provider to understand how to manage individual allergies and also to set up an Allergy Action Plan in the case of a reaction.

Always present your Allergy Card, Medical Alert Bracelet or Necklace to ensure health care providers, family members, friends, colleagues and others are aware of your Allergy or Allergies.

TESTING

A skin test or blood test may be used to test for a Hazelnut Allergy.

RANDOM ALLERGY FACT

Corylus Avellana (plant that grows Hazelnuts) was gifted in Ancient Rome in the belief that it brought happiness.

WHERE YOU MAY COME ACROSS HAZELNUTS

The below is not a complete list, but just some of the places you may come across Hazelnuts:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Cake
• Candy
• Cereals
• Chocolates
• Cookies
• Cosmetics
• Desserts
• Foundation
• Frozen desserts
• Energy bars
• Ice creams
• Lotions
• Moisturisers
• Natural extracts
• Nougat
• Hazelnut butters
• Hazelnut Oil
• Pastries
• Pie crusts
• Puddings
• Salad dressings
• Salads
• Shampoos
• Soups
• Toiletries
• Trail mix

The information provided on Allergy Life Australia is to generally educate and inform you about living with allergies, intolerances and conditions, and is not intended as medical instruction or as a substitute for diagnosis, examination and advice by a qualified health care provider. 

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ARE THERE ANY OTHER PLACES WITH HAZELNUTS YOU HAVE COME ACROSS? HAVE YOU HAD AN EXPERIENCE WITH A HAZELNUT ALLERGY OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT HAS? LET US KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW