Food allergies have become a growing concern in recent years. Some people experience severe symptoms that can be life-threatening, while others deal with milder reactions.

Whether you have a food allergy yourself or are just interested in learning more, it is important to be aware of the top five deadly food allergies. Here are the most common allergens and what you need to know about how they can affect your body.

Peanuts

Peanuts are one of the most well-known food allergens, often encountered in snacks, sauces, and baked goods.

Allergic reactions to peanuts can range from mild symptoms such as hives or nausea to severe anaphylaxis, which can cause difficulty breathing, drop of blood pressure, and even death. Even a small amount of peanut dust in the air can trigger a reaction in some individuals with peanut allergies, making it difficult to avoid.

Tree Nuts

Tree nuts, such as cashews, almonds, and walnuts, are also common food allergens. They can trigger an allergic reaction ranging from mild symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

People with tree nut allergies are often advised to avoid all tree nuts since they can be cross-contaminated in processing or storage facilities.

Shellfish

Shellfish allergy affects millions of people around the world. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include hives, swelling of the face, throat, or mouth, and difficulty breathing.

Some individuals may also experience a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Shellfish contain high levels of iodine, which can trigger allergic reactions even in people who are not allergic to shellfish.

Milk

Milk allergies are common among children, but many people outgrow them by adulthood. Symptoms can range from a mild rash or hives to more severe reactions such as vomiting, wheezing, or anaphylaxis.

People with milk allergies must avoid milk and milk products, including cheese, butter, and yogurt.

Eggs

Egg allergies are also common among children, but many will outgrow them as they get older. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and reactions can happen within minutes to a few hours after eating eggs.

Symptoms can include hives, vomiting, or anaphylaxis. People with egg allergies must read labels carefully and avoid baked goods, processed foods, and other foods that contain egg.

Living with a food allergy can be very challenging, especially if you have a life-threatening allergy.

If you or someone you know has an allergy, it is important to educate yourself about the allergen, read food labels carefully, and carry emergency medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector, at all times. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms after eating a food that you are allergic to.