NASA’s x-ray telescope finds bizarre features in a cosmic hand

 Near the center of these images lies the pulsar B1509-58, a rapidly spinning neutron star that is only about 12 miles in diameter. This tiny object is responsible for producing an intricate nebula (called MSH 15-52) that spans over 150 light-years, or about 900 trillion miles. The nebula, which is produced by energetic particles, resembles a human hand with a palm and extended fingers pointing to the upper right in Chandra’s X-ray view. Radio data from ATCA provides new information about this exploded star and its environment. This image also contains optical data of hydrogen gas. The bright red and gold areas near the top of the image show the remains of the supernova that formed the pulsar. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/Univ. of Hong Kong/S. Zhang et al.; Radio: ATNF/CSIRO/ATCA; H-alpha: UK STFC/Royal Observatory Edinburgh; Image Processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/N. Wolk

In 2009, NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory released a captivating image: a pulsar and its surrounding nebula that is shaped like a hand.

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X-rays from Chandra have been combined with radio data obtained by the Australian Telescope Compact Array to reveal new structures.

At the center of this image is a pulsar, a rapidly spinning neutron star, which is responsible for creating the nebula.

This system was created when a massive star collapsed and exploded after it burned through its sustainable nuclear fuel.

In 2009, NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory released a captivating image: a pulsar and its surrounding nebula that is shaped like a hand.

Since then, astronomers have used Chandra and other telescopes to continue to observe this object. Now, new radio data from the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), has been combined with Chandra's X-ray data to provide a fresh view of this exploded star and its environment, to help understand its peculiar properties and shape.

At the center of this new image lies the pulsar B1509-58, a rapidly spinning neutron star that is only about 12 miles in diameter. This tiny object is responsible for producing an intricate nebula (called MSH 15-52) that spans over 150 light-years, or about 900 trillion miles. The nebula, which is produced by energetic particles, resembles a human hand with a palm and extended fingers pointing to the upper right in X-rays.

The collapse of a massive star created the pulsar when much of the star crashed inward once it burned through its sustainable nuclear fuel. An ensuing explosion sent the star's outer layers outward into space as a supernova.

The pulsar spins around almost seven times every second and has a strong magnetic field, about 15 trillion times stronger than the Earth's. The rapid rotation and strong magnetic field make B1509-58 one of the most powerful electromagnetic generators in the Galaxy, enabling it to drive an energetic wind of electrons and other particles away from the pulsar, creating the nebula.

In this new composite image, the ATCA radio data (represented in red) has been combined with X-rays from Chandra (shown in blue, orange and yellow), along with an optical image of hydrogen gas (gold). The areas of overlap between the X-ray and radio data in MSH 15-52 show as purple. The optical image shows stars in the field of view along with parts of the supernova's debris, the supernova remnant RCW 89.

Radio data from ATCA now reveals complex filaments that are aligned with the directions of the nebula's magnetic field, shown by the short, straight, white lines in a supplementary image. These filaments could result from the collision of the pulsar's particle wind with the supernova's debris.

By comparing the radio and X-ray data, researchers identified key differences between the sources of the two types of light. In particular, some prominent X-ray features, including the jet towards the bottom of the image and the inner parts of the three "fingers" towards the top, are not detected in radio waves. This suggests that highly energetic particles are leaking out from a shock wave -- similar to a supersonic plane's sonic boom -- near the pulsar and moving along magnetic field lines to create the fingers.

The radio data also shows that RCW 89's structure is different from typical young supernova remnants. Much of the radio emission is patchy and closely matches clumps of X-ray and optical emission. It also extends well beyond the X-ray emission. All of these characteristics support the idea that RCW 89 is colliding with a dense cloud of nearby hydrogen gas.

However, the researchers do not fully understand all that the data is showing them. One area that is perplexing is the sharp boundary of X-ray emission in the upper right of the image that seems to be the blast wave from the supernova -- see the labeled feature. Supernova blast waves are usually bright in radio waves for young supernova remnants like RCW 89, so it is surprising to researchers that there is no radio signal at the X-ray boundary.

MSH 15-52 and RCW 89 show many unique features not found in other young sources. There are, however, still many open questions regarding the formation and evolution of these structures. Further work is needed to provide better understanding of the complex interplay between the pulsar wind and the supernova debris.

Source: ScienceDaily

What is ichthyosis vulgaris?

 Ichthyosis vulgaris is a skin condition where the skin’s surface becomes dry, thick, and scaly. Most cases of ichthyosis vulgaris are hereditary and begin in childhood.

In rare instances, adults can acquire the condition as a side effect of certain medications or other medical conditions.

Currently, there is no known cure for the condition, but the consistent and regular use of moisturizers and exfoliants are often enough to resolve symptoms.

What is ichthyosis vulgaris?

Ichthyosis vulgaris is a type of ichthyosis, a group of related skin conditions that interfere with the skin’s ability to shed dead skin cells, causing extremely dry, thick skin.

Extremely dry, scaly skin is known as xerosis.

There are more than 20 different types of ichthyosis, but ichthyosis vulgaris is considered the most common form. It accounts for nearly 95 percent of all ichthyosis cases.

Ichthyosis is a relatively common condition, impacting approximately 1 in every 250 people. It usually develops in early childhood, typically between the ages of 2 and 5.

Ichthyosis vulgaris is often called fish scale disease because the scales that characterize the condition look like fish scales.

A doctor diagnoses the condition by looking at the skin changes and determining if anyone else in the family has a similar problem. The doctor will likely also ask about other medical issues and perform a skin biopsy or obtain a cheek cell sample. Genetic testing is also often used to confirm the condition.

What is harlequin ichthyosis and is it serious?

Harlequin ichthyosis is a rare form of ichthyosis that is present at birth. A newborn with the condition will have thick plates of skin that crack and split apart. Eating and breathing may be difficult, and infection may occur.

In the past, it was difficult to survive more than a few days with this condition. Now, however, treatment is available. If applied immediately, it can be effective. Some children with harlequin ichthyosis are already living into their teens and 20s.

Causes

Most cases of ichthyosis vulgaris are caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for encoding filaggrin. This is a protein that helps create the skin’s natural barrier.

Without an effective barrier, the skin struggles to retain moisture and a consistent pH.

Chronically dehydrated skin cells begin to thicken and harden as they age. They then move to the surface of the skin, where they become fixed scales.

A vast majority of ichthyosis cases are inherited. Individuals with one copy of the abnormal gene tend to have milder cases than those with two copies.

The condition can also be caused by:

• the use of certain medications
• systemic conditions
• conditions that affect the entire body

Common causes of acquired ichthyosis include:

• impaired thyroid function
• Hodgkin lymphoma
• HIV
• sarcoidosis
• organ failure, especially liver and kidney failure
• many medications targeted cancer therapy drugs
• medicines containing nicotinic acid
• medications containing kava
• hydroxyurea

Symptoms

Ichthyosis vulgaris causes extremely dehydrated skin resulting in thick and scaly skin.

The most commonly impacted regions of the body include:

• extensor region of the limbs, especially the elbows and shins
• torso
• scalp
• face, typically the forehead and cheeks

Typically, symptoms are not present at birth but develop at around 2 months of age. Initially, symptoms are often mistaken for dry skin.

Ichthyosis vulgaris may present as skin dryness with accompanying fine, white, or skin-colored scales. Often, the skin will also flake.

The scaling associated with ichthyosis vulgaris can also cause the skin to crack in areas that are severely or persistently affected. Cracking most often occurs on the soles and palms.

Scaling can also lead to general discomfort and pain and make the skin more vulnerable to irritation and further drying. While rare, in some people with ichthyosis vulgaris, scaling interferes with the sweat glands causing either excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or an inability to sweat.

The severity of symptoms varies from person to person and symptoms can intensify during puberty. Anything that causes the skin to dry out further, or impairs its ability to retain moisture may also worsen symptoms.

Ichthyosis vulgaris is also commonly associated with other skin conditions. About 50 percent of those with the condition also have eczema (atopic dermatitis).

Individuals with both conditions have an increased risk of:

• rhinitis
• allergies
• asthma

Most people with both ichthyosis vulgaris and eczema tend to present with severe symptoms at a young age that persist into adulthood.

Ichthyosis vulgaris is also commonly associated with keratosis pilaris, a condition where hair follicles become clogged with skin scales.

Ichthyosis vulgaris is also associated with hyperlinearity, or increased skin lines, often on the soles and palms.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ichthyosis vulgaris. Treatment options revolve around lessening symptoms by removing scaling and reducing skin dryness.

Regular, consistent exfoliation aims to slowly dull scales. Once scaling subsides, the skin is better able to take in and retain moisture.

Commonly recommended ways to reduce scaling include:

• soaking the affected area in salt water or bathe in salt water
• soaking the affected area in lukewarm water and then gently rubbing in a circular motion using a pumice stone
• using moisturizers that contain exfoliating chemicals, such as glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, or urea
• carefully brushing washed hair to remove scaling on the scalp
• for severe cases, using oral vitamin A-based medications like acitretin or isotretinoin to slow down skin cell production

Alongside exfoliation, using moisturizers and lotions consistently and regularly:

• helps increases skin hydration
• reduces the risk of cracking and splitting
• may prevent further scaling

It is a good idea to use lotions or body washes that have a high-fat content, such as lanolin creams, as the first line of treatment.

A variety of environmental factors and lifestyle habits dehydrate the skin, intensifying the dryness and scaling associated with ichthyosis vulgaris.

Some easy ways to reduce the likelihood of worsening symptoms include:

• avoiding environments with cold or dry air
• taking short showers or baths
• cutting down on the frequency of bathing
• avoiding harsh or scented soaps, detergents, body washes, shampoos, and conditioners
• blotting, rather than rubbing the skin after exposure to water
• applying moisturizers immediately (within 3 minutes) after showers or baths
• after moisturizing, cover the skin with sealants, such as plastic wrap for a few hours to physically trap moisture and increase saturation
• avoiding heavily air-conditioned environments
• avoiding places controlled by centralized heating
• using a humidifier
• protecting the skin from wind or cold
• avoiding environments with high air pollution that can interfere with the skin’s natural pH
• avoiding the use hard tap water that interferes with the skin’s pH
• using sunscreen, ideally those with added moisturizers
• avoiding tanning beds or artificial tanning
• avoiding pools and hot tubs that contain skin drying chemicals and irritants, such as chlorine
• treating other skin drying conditions, such as eczema

Source - Medical News Today

What can you put on a newborn's dry skin?

 Newborn babies often have dry, peeling skin. Most of the time, newborn skin peeling is typical. However, sometimes newborn skin peeling occurs as a result of conditions that require treatment.

Most people expect newborn babies to have soft, flawless skin, and new parents or caregivers often express concern if their newborns have imperfect skin. However, it should not usually be cause for concern.

In this article, we look at the causes of newborn skin peeling and provide 10 home remedies and treatments.

What causes newborn skin peeling?

Newborn skin peeling is usually a natural consequence of pregnancy.

Newborn babies have just spent 9 months surrounded by amniotic fluid. Due to this, their skin does not exfoliate as adults’ skin does. Instead, a newborn’s skin may look dry and begin to peel off.

The following factors may affect the likelihood of newborn skin peeling:

Vernix caseosa

When a baby is in the womb, a thick waxy coating called vernix caseosa, or vernix, develops on the baby’s skin to protect it from the amniotic fluid. According to the American Pregnancy Association, vernix begins forming around the 20th week of pregnancy.

If people avoid washing the vernix off the baby immediately after birth, this natural biofilm may also help the baby’s skin to adapt to life outside the womb.

Full-term birth

The extent of the skin peeling will vary according to the baby’s gestational age at birth. Babies who are born prematurely or before 40 weeks are likely to have less skin peeling than babies born closer to term, or after more than 40 weeks.

Babies who spend more time in the womb tend to have less vernix on them at birth, meaning that their skin has had more exposure to amniotic fluid. This can lead to increased skin peeling.

Other causes

While a newborn’s exposure to the amniotic fluid is the most common cause of newborn skin peeling, there are other possible causes.

These may include:

• atopic dermatitis or other types of eczema
• psoriasis
• ichthyosis

Ten home remedies and treatments

There are many home remedies that people can use to help protect a newborn’s skin. The following 10 methods may help to prevent or treat dry, cracked, or peeling skin.

1. Reducing exposure to cold air

Cold air is often quite dry and can cause the skin to dry out in turn. This can lead to cracks in the skin and peeling. Limiting a baby’s exposure to cold air can help to prevent this.

2. Using a humidifier

When moisture is present in the air, it helps to prevent dry, itchy skin. A humidifier will increase the amount of moisture in the room.

3. Limiting the amount of time in the bathtub

Baths can have an adverse effect on a baby’s skin. Prolonged periods in bathwater can wash away naturally occurring oils, leaving the baby more susceptible to peeling skin. A parent or caregiver should limit bath time to a maximum of 10 minutes and avoid using harsh soaps.

4. Using lukewarm water to clean the baby

Lukewarm water is ideal for washing a baby’s skin. Water that is too hot can dry out the skin. It can also be beneficial to apply moisturizer immediately after a lukewarm bath.

5. Trying an oatmeal bath

Research shows that colloidal oatmeal reduces inflammation and itching, which may prevent the baby from scratching any damaged, peeling skin and making it worse.

Oatmeal bath treatments are available in many drug stores, natural food stores, and online.

6. Moisturizing the skin

Parents and caregivers can buy moisturizers that are particularly suitable for a baby’s sensitive skin. They should choose a hypoallergenic moisturizer and apply it two to three times a day.

7. Keeping the baby hydrated

Another way to prevent peeling skin on newborns is to ensure that they do not become dehydrated. Breast milk or formula should be sufficient to hydrate babies up to 6 months in age.

8. Avoiding unnecessary chemicals

A newborn’s skin is very sensitive. If the skin comes into contact with chemicals, such as perfumes or soaps with fragrances, it can become irritated.

9. Choosing appropriate clothing

In addition to washing a baby with fragrance-free soaps, parents should clean a baby’s clothing in detergents that do not contain unnecessary fragrances. This can help to prevent secondary exposure to these chemicals.

People should also choose soft, loose-fitting clothes made of natural materials for babies as these are less likely to irritate or put pressure on the skin.

10. Keeping the baby comfortable

Part of the treatment for the newborn’s peeling skin involves keeping the baby as comfortable as possible. This may involve soothing them and helping them to find positions that avoid putting pressure on the peeling skin.

When to see a doctor

Peeling skin is a common occurrence in newborns. In most cases, it should not be necessary to seek medical advice.

However, parents and caregivers should look for additional signs and symptoms. They should take a baby to see the doctor if the skin is:

• red
• cracked
• itchy
• swollen

Source - Medical News today

If the baby is running a fever, medical attention will be necessary.

Takeaway

Peeling skin on a newborn baby is quite common and not usually a cause for concern. Treatment is usually possible using home remedies, and medical intervention is rarely necessary.

If a baby’s skin appears to be cracked, itchy, or swollen, it is best to take them to see a doctor. Otherwise, the methods above should help to protect the skin and prevent a reocurrence of the peeling skin.

Source - Medical News today

What causes dry skin on a baby's face?

 Possible causes of dry skin on a baby’s face include overexposure to water, dehydration, alcohol-based lotions, and more. In some cases, treatment may not be necessary.

Babies often have dry skin on their faces because their skin is more sensitive than adults. Their skin may be adjusting to the environment outside the womb, or it may be reacting to allergens in products or clothes. Dehydration and skin conditions can also cause dry skin.

Most cases are minor, temporary, and of little cause for concern, though some may need specialist advice, treatment and continued observation.

The following sections look at the causes of dry skin in a baby’s face and treatments.

It is common for newborn babies to have peeling skin for a week or two after birth.

In the womb, amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus, and the skin does not exfoliate as it does outside the womb. In the early days after birth, a newborn’s skin might appear dry and may peel.

In the womb, a waxy coating of vernix covers the fetus’s skin, which protects it from the amniotic fluid. Leaving the vernix on the baby’s skin for a while immediately after birth may help the baby’s skin to adapt to the environment outside the womb.

Preterm babies often have less vernix and less skin peeling than babies born at term. Overdue babies often have less vernix, but more skin peeling than babies born at term.

Skin peeling is a natural process, and most babies do not need treatment. Dry skin will go away on its own, though people can use gentle home remedies to speed up this process. Using warm baths and humidifiers can help.

2. Overexposure to water

Long baths, especially those with hot water, tend to wash away some of the skin’s naturally present oils. This increases the risk of dry, peeling skin. Avoid using harsh, potent soaps as these have a similar drying effect.

It is best to limit a baby’s bath time to 15 minutes in lukewarm water. Dry the baby’s skin gently by patting their face with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing with the towel to reduce friction and minimize the risk of skin peeling.

People may consider keeping a gentle baby-friendly moisturizer handy to apply occasionally if a baby has excessively dry skin.

3. Dehydration

Cool, dry environments — both outside and in the home — dehydrate the skin very quickly and can lead to breaks in or peeling of the skin.

Often, a humidifier can help regulate moisture levels in a room but first check with the pediatrician whether it is OK to use one.

In the case of newborns, breast milk is the best solution to keep them hydrated and healthy. The World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source recommend exclusive breastfeeding, meaning no other food or liquids, for 6 months from the time of birth.

4. Use of alcohol-based lotions

One of the most important to-dos while shopping for baby products is to read the packaging label. Avoid lotions and creams that have an alcohol base, as they dehydrate the skin’s outer surface.

5. Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis is a group of genetic skin conditions that cause peeling and dryness of the skin that is often severe. The word ‘ichthyosis’ comes from the Greek word ‘ichthys’ — meaning fish — since people with this condition have scaly-looking skin.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are more than 20 different types of ichthyosis. Ichthyosis vulgaris is the mildest form of the condition that develops during infancy or childhood.

Doctors diagnose ichthyosis if it is present at birth based on the family’s medical history and a physical examination. They may also ask for a blood or skin sample to confirm the condition.

Ichthyosis has no cure, but many topical creams can help relieve dryness and control other symptoms. However, do not use over-the-counter (OTC) remedies unless prescribed by a dermatologist or pediatrician.

6. Eczema

In some cases, a skin condition called atopic dermatitis or eczema can also lead to dryness on a baby’s face. Sometimes, the cause of eczema is unknown, but experts have found that nearly half the people with moderate to severe eczema also have asthma, seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis, or food allergies, though these do not usually start in early infancy.

Common symptoms of eczema are:

• itchy skin
• dry or peeling skin
• red, chafed, or thick skin
• inflammation that comes and goes
• rash on the face, neck, wrists, knees, elbows, and ankles

In babies with eczema, dry skin tends to worsen the rash and itching. Talk to a doctor who will recommend creams or ointments to relieve symptoms.

Treatments

In most cases, dry skin on a baby’s face does not require treatment. People can, however, relieve the symptoms or speed up healing using a few methods.

Prevention

Some simple tips and home remedies to prevent dry skin include:

• using a baby-friendly moisturizer if needed, though this is usually not necessary and most babies do best with as few lotions put on their skin as possible
• keeping the baby away from cold indoor and outdoor conditions
• avoiding harsh, heavily scented creams and perfumes around the baby
• keeping bath time to a maximum of 15 minutes
• gently patting dry the baby’s face and avoid rubbing their skin with the towel to reduce friction

Takeaway

Baby skin, especially that of a newborn, is more fragile, more prone to infection, and more permeable to external agents than the skin of older children and adults.

Many babies experience dry, peeling skin during infancy. Sometimes, skin peels as a result of temporary natural causes, while other times, irritants, genetic conditions, or environmental conditions cause the skin to peel.

If dryness persists for more than a couple of weeks, check with a pediatrician or dermatologist to identify the root cause and find a more permanent solution.

Source - Medical News today

9 common foods that cause allergies

 Although many foods can cause an allergic reaction, just a handful of foods cause most allergies. Examples of common foods that cause allergies include milk, eggs, and fish.

Foods contain protein allergens. For the majority of people, these proteins do not trigger an allergic reaction. While many foods can cause an allergic reaction, only nine common foods cause 90%Trusted Source of allergies in the United States. These are:

• milk
• eggs
• fish
• shellfish
• tree nuts like almonds or pecans
• peanuts
• wheat
• soybeans
• sesame

Children most commonly experience food allergies to peanuts, milk, soybean, tree nuts, eggs, and wheat, but many children stop being allergic to foods like milk, egg, wheat, and soy early in their childhood.

Adults with food allergies typically react to tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish. When a person thinks they have a food allergy but is not sure what food they are reacting to, an allergist can recommend a food allergy test. This can be done via either a skin or a blood test.

This article looks at the different types of common food allergies, the symptoms of each allergy, and what people can do to avoid a reaction. In severe cases, food allergies can lead to a serious and sometimes fatal allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. A person experiencing this severe reaction should seek medical attention immediately. Whenever possible people should keep epinephrine on hand and use it to treat anaphylaxis immediately.

Eggs

Like many food allergies, an egg allergy is common in childhood. The major proteins that cause an allergic reaction to eggs are ovomucoid, ovalbumin, and ovotransferrin.

Some people can consume baked or cooked eggs without getting an allergic reaction, but not others. Some people might also get an allergic reaction to eggs if they are allergic to the bird that laid the egg or its feathers. This is called bird-egg syndromeTrusted Source.

Egg allergy symptoms

Symptoms of an egg allergy can include vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion, wheezing, or cough. The best way to avoid an allergic reaction to eggs is to avoid eating eggs or food products that contain them.

An allergy to eggs is not the same as egg intolerance.

Fish

Adults are more likely to have an allergic reaction to fish and shellfish than children. Some people will get reactions from only certain types of fish, and others can react to all fish. The degree of reaction can vary depending on the type of fish that people eat.

Most people who have an allergy to fish will react to the protein allergen called parvalbumin. Cooking does not destroy these proteins, which means that people can have reactions to both cooked and raw fish.

Fish allergy symptoms

Symptoms of an allergic reaction to fish can include a skin rash. People can also get a runny nose, sneezing, or symptoms of asthma. For people who are allergic to fish, avoiding fish and fish products is key.

Milk

An allergy to cow’s milk is one of the most common food allergies in childhood. A person can have a reaction even to small amounts of milk or from eating dairy products.

Some nursing babies will experience colic or eczema if the mother has consumed cow’s milk or eaten dairy products.

Many children will outgrow a milk allergy. A study from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) shows that 53% of infants under age one are allergic to milk, but only 15% of adolescents.

Milk allergy symptoms

The symptoms of milk allergy include hives, diarrhea, and vomiting. People can be allergic to two different milk proteins, casein and whey. Many foods that are not obvious milk or dairy products can contain these proteins. People who are allergic to milk should be careful to not drink it or consume any products that may contain milk or dairy.

A milk allergy is not the same as lactose intolerance. People who have lactose intolerance are not allergic to milk. Instead, it means they don’t have enough of an enzyme called lactase, which they need to break down lactose.

Tree nuts

Allergies to tree nuts are usually lifelong. Along with shellfish and peanut allergies, tree nut allergies are among the most frequent food-induced causes of anaphylaxis. The nuts most likely to lead to allergic reactions are:

• cashews
• pistachios
• walnuts
• hazelnuts
• almonds
• pecans
• brazil nuts

Sometimes, people with an allergy to one type of nut can also react to other nuts.

Tree nut allergy symptoms

People allergic to tree nuts can react in many different ways. Symptoms can include hives, vomiting, low blood pressure, or difficulty swallowing. Some people can also experience itching in the mouth, throat, skin, eyes, or other parts of the body. People allergic to tree nuts should avoid eating them or any foods that may contain them.

Peanuts

Peanuts are one of the most common causes of food allergy. People allergic to peanuts will usually be allergic all their lives. Nevertheless, recent research shows that as many as 20% of allergic people may outgrow the allergy. A peanut-caused allergic reaction can be severe, and even traces of peanut can be enough to cause a reaction in people who are sensitive.

A small minority of people with peanut allergies might also react to other legumesTrusted Source such as green peas.

Even though peanuts aren’t tree nuts, people with a peanut allergy are sometimes allergic to some tree nuts as well.

Cooking some allergy-causing foods can eliminate the reaction-causing proteins, but studies show that is probably not the case when it comes to roasting, boilingTrusted Source, or frying peanuts.

Experts believe peanut oil is safe for people with peanut allergies because the proteins that cause allergic reactions are removed during the manufacturing process. However, cold-pressed or unrefined peanut oil can contain small amounts of peanut allergens, which can cause a reaction in people who are sensitive.

Peanut allergy symptoms

People allergic to peanuts will experience many of the same symptoms as people allergic to other foods. These symptoms include stomach problems, weak pulse, swelling, hives, dizziness, and confusion.

Allergic people should be careful before consuming peanuts in any form.

Shellfish

An allergy to shellfish is different than an allergy to fish. Many types of shellfish can cause reactions in people who are allergic, including:

• shrimp
• lobster
• crab
• crayfish
• oysters
• scallops
• mussels
• clams

People who are allergic to one type of shellfish often find that they react to other types as well.

Shellfish allergy symptoms

People having an allergic reaction to shellfish can experience vomiting, wheezing, and other symptoms common to the majority of food allergies.

A shellfish allergy can often cause severe reactions, and some people can even react to the vapors from cooking shellfish. As with other food allergies, people should avoid coming in contact with shellfish if they have this allergy.

Soybean

Soybean allergy is a common childhood allergy. Most people who are allergic to soybeans are under 3 years old, but occasionally adults are allergic to soybean.

Soybean allergy symptoms

People allergic to soybeans can experience rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Rarely, soybeans may cause anaphylaxis.

Avoiding soybeans is key to avoiding a reaction. Some people can eat highly refined soybean oil or foods that contain soy lecithin, a substance derived during soybean processing. Allergic people should consult a doctor to check if this is safe for them.

Wheat

Wheat allergy is another common pediatric food allergy. Approximately 65% of children will outgrow it by age 12.

One of the main allergens in wheat is a protein called gliadin, which is found in gluten. Because of this, people with a wheat allergy may need to eat a gluten-free diet.

Wheat allergy symptoms

People rarely get anaphylaxis from a wheat allergy, but this can happen occasionally. Symptoms of a wheat allergy also include asthmatic symptoms, digestion problems, and rashes.

As with all food allergies, people who suspect they may be allergic to wheat will need to speak with their doctor before altering their diet. Wheat allergy is not the same as celiac disease, which is an autoimmune condition.

Asthma and allergy resources

To discover more evidence-based information and resources for living with asthma and allergies, visit our dedicated hub.

Sesame

An allergy to sesame can be severe, especially for children. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), only about 20-30%Trusted Source of children with this allergy will outgrow it by adulthood.

Previously, this allergy wasn’t as well known. But in April 2021, the U.S. government passed the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act, which declared sesame the ninth officially recognized major food allergen in the country. This law means that manufacturers now have to label sesame as a potential allergen when it’s an ingredient in produced food.

Sesame allergy symptoms

Like other food allergies, an allergy to sesame can cause a range of symptoms. These can include rashes, hives, or vomiting. In severe cases, it can also lead to throat swelling and anaphylaxis.

Since these symptoms can overlap with symptoms of other food allergies, it can be hard to diagnose a sesame allergy reliably. But a 2019 study in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology showed that out of 88 children who had confirmed food allergies, 17%Trusted Source were allergic to sesame. Overall, estimates suggest that about 1.1 million Trusted Source Americans are allergic to sesame.

Other types of food allergies

In addition to these major food allergies, people can be allergic to almost any food. There are many other allergies that affect a lot of people, including allergies to other cereals besides wheat, like oats. Other foods that can cause allergies include coconutTrusted Source, fruit and vegetablesTrusted Source, meat, and spices like cinnamon.

Summary

The best way for a person to avoid an allergic reaction is to not eat any foods that they are sensitive to. This can be challenging because many food products contain allergy-causing foods like dairy, eggs, and peanuts.

Allergic people should always check the ingredients of any store-bought foods before consuming them.

Source - Medical News today