Peanut allergies are perhaps one of the most common food allergies and often the symptoms appear very early on in life.  Unlike many other food issues such as lactose intolerance or egg allergies this is one that only tends to get worse as you get older. In fact peanut allergies that may seem only minor the first time they happen can quickly become much more serious. As with any allergy the reactions can range from a simple rash or watery eyes to anaphylactic shock which can result in the need for hospitalization or even in the worst case, death.
Allergic reactions to peanuts will usually show up within a few minutes of a person being exposed to the peanuts.  Some of the most common reactions include hives, redness of the skin, an itchy throat or tingly feeling in the throat and mouth. Others may include stomach cramps, diarrhea or a nauseous feeling accompanied by vomiting.
As the reaction gets worse the person may experience a runny nose, shortness of breath or tightness in their throat.  In the most extreme cases anaphylaxis may occur, in fact a peanut allergy is the most common cause of anaphylactic shock and immediate treatment is needed followed by a trip to the emergency room.
These allergic reactions can be caused in three different ways although the reactions are not dependant on which way the person comes in contact with the peanut.  The most common way people come into contact with peanuts is through direct contact either by eating them or eating something with peanuts in them.  The second most common way to come in contact with peanuts is through cross-contamination which is when a food is prepared in the same place as one containing peanuts, allowing small particles of peanut to get into the food.  Finally a person can inhale dust from products containing peanuts such as aerosols, cooking sprays or even from peanuts flour being used nearby.
The best treatment for an allergy to peanuts is to simply avoid them at all costs, you need to take the time to read all labels when shopping for foods and ask plenty of questions when dining out.  Peanuts tend to show up in some very odd places when it comes to food products so extra vigilance is needed to ensure that contact is avoided.
For treating a person who has had a mild reaction to peanuts use an anti-histamine such as Benadryl to relieve mild symptoms such as hives or an itchy throat.  In the event of a more severe allergic reaction an Epi-pen should be used by someone who is trained in its use.  The Epi-pen contains a dose of epinephrine that will give immediate relief from the reaction and may prevent the person from going into anaphylactic shock, follow up with an immediate call for an ambulance with trained emergency personnel.