Peanut allergy is a type of food allergy, distinct from nut allergies. It is a hypersensitivity to dietary substances from peanuts causing an overreaction of the immune system which may lead to severe physical symptoms for millions of people. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that the majority of pediatric and adult food allergy patients have a peanut allergy. Prevalence among adults and children is similar (around 1%) but at least one study shows it to be on the rise in children. 25% of children with a peanut allergy grow out of it. It is usually treated with an exclusion diet and vigilant avoidance of foods that may be contaminated with whole peanuts or peanut particles and/or oils. The most severe peanut allergies can result in anaphylaxis and is an emergency situation requiring immediate attention and treatment with epinephrine.

This eight-page booklet is filled with ideas and tips for celebrating Valentine's Day safely with your food allergic children. Included are school party planning tips, allergy safe crafts and allergy-free recipes including "peanut butter" cups, crunch chocolates, and sugar lollipops.

Robyn O’Brien used to roll her eyes when a child with a peanut allergy showed up at a birthday party. Then, two years ago, she fed her youngest child scrambled eggs. Her baby’s face swelled into a grotesque mask.

Potentially deadly peanut allergies are showing up at much younger ages as parents introduce their children to the food much earlier than a decade ago, a study released Monday has found.

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Allergies to peanuts and other foods are showing up in children at younger ages for reasons that are not clear, researchers said on Monday, and some urged parents to postpone exposing susceptible children to peanuts.

By Andrew Stern CHICAGO (Reuters) - Allergies to peanuts and other foods are showing up in children at younger ages for reasons that are not clear, researchers said on Monday, and some urged parents to postpone exposing susceptible children to...