Most Effective Treatment Option For A Cashew Allergy Is Avoidance

Cashew allergies, one form of tree nut allergy, can cause severe and even life-threatening allergic reactions. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with an allergy to cashews or other tree nuts, the primary form of treatment is to avoid coming into contact with cashews to prevent an allergic reaction.

This includes avoiding any food that may have cashews as an ingredient. It also includes foods that 'may contain' cashews due to the possibility of cross-contamination, such as peanuts that are processed on the same equipment also used to process cashews. Many of those with cashew allergies are also allergic to pistachio, and are advised to avoid these nuts too. Those with severe cashew allergies should also avoid situations in which they may come into contact with cashew residue or airborne cashew dust.

Although avoidance is the recommended treatment for cashew allergies, accidental exposure does happen. If anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction, occurs, it must be treated immediately with epinephrine. Most people who know they have a nut allergy carry an EpiPen auto-injector to treat themselves if they experience an allergic reaction. The treatment involves injection into the thigh to stop the symptoms of the reaction.

This is often followed by hospitalization, which can be accompanied with IV fluids and other treatments to stop the most serious symptoms of the allergic reaction. Other medications, such as antihistamines or bronchodilators, may be used to treat asthmatic symptoms of an allergic reaction. Those with cashew allergies should discuss medication options with their doctor.

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