Tree Nut Allergy
Testing & Treatment
in DFW and North Texas

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Where treatment leads 2 Freedom

Transforming food allergy care, one bite at a time

Tree nut allergies are common among children and adults, and can sometimes be severe without prompt treatment. At Safe2Bite | Texas Food Allergy Center, we offer comprehensive food allergy services for families in North Texas. From food allergy testing to treatment and management, our board-certified food allergist and team are dedicated to helping you live your life to the fullest.

Our offices, located in McKinney, Prosper, Southlake and Frisco, proudly serve families from across DFW and the broader North Texas area who seek expert tree nut allergy treatment.

Convenient Appointments
with After Hours Telehealth
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Can You Be Allergic to Some Tree Nuts but Not Others?

Tree nut allergies are one of the food allergens most often linked to serious adverse reactions, including anaphylaxis. The allergies most reported by children and adults are in response to consuming hazelnuts, pistachios, almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts and macadamia nuts.

But what are the causes of tree nut allergies? When a person with a tree nut allergy is exposed to proteins in the tree nuts, the body mistakenly identifies them as harmful invaders. The immune system produces antibodies (like IgE) to fight them. Upon future exposure to tree nuts, the IgE antibodies bind to the proteins, triggering the immune system to release chemicals like histamine, which can lead to a range of mild to severe symptoms that can be life-threatening without proper treatment.

It’s important to keep in mind that peanuts are legumes, not tree nuts. That said, about 25-40% of individuals allergic to peanuts are also allergic to at least one tree nut. Moreover, there is a high degree of cross-reactivity with certain nuts, so being allergic to one type of tree nut increases the chances of being allergic to another. If you are allergic to a certain tree nut, it’s important to talk to your food allergy specialist before adding any other nuts to your diet.

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Signs That You May Need
Food Allergy Testing

Symptoms of tree nut allergies can be mild to severe. Accurate food allergy testing and diagnosis can help determine exactly which nuts are triggering your reaction. Here is a look at some of the most common signs of adverse reactions.

Hives, itching or skin rash.

Swelling of lips, face, eyes or other areas.

Runny nose or nasal congestion.

Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Tingling in the mouth or throat.

Difficulty breathing, wheezing or coughing.

Difficulty swallowing, throat tightness or hoarseness.

Anxiety, dizziness, faintness, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

Tree Nut Allergy Testing in Dallas-Fort Worth

At Safe2Bite, we take an evidence-based approach to diagnosing food allergies. We start by evaluating your symptoms and medical history and may recommend one or a combination of the following tests.

Skin Prick Testing (SPT)

Here, we prick a small amount of tree nut extract into your skin. A raised, red bump or redness may indicate a positive reaction.

Blood Testing (Specific IgE Testing)

This test measures the level of the immunoglobulin E or IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate an allergic response to tree nuts. Specific IgE antibody tests can identify the tree nuts causing the allergy.

Oral Food Challenge (OFC)

This test is performed under strict medical supervision. It involves consuming small amounts of tree nuts while being monitored for reaction. It is ideal for when other tests are inconclusive or if the allergic reactions are mild.

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Treatment Options for Tree Nut Allergies

Tree nut allergies are typically managed by strict avoidance and carrying epinephrine auto-injectors for emergency treatment. At Safe2Bite, we also offer advanced therapies to desensitize you or your child and reduce the severity of any responses in the event of accidental exposure to tree nuts.

The following are some of our treatment options.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)

OIT involves the introduction of increasing doses of the tree nut allergen to build tolerance. This helps reduce the risk of future severe reactions.

Food Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

SLIT involves the administration of small doses of tree nut protein under the tongue to help build tolerance gradually over time. This helps lower the risk of severe allergic reactions in the future.

Our board-certified allergist will work with you to address your unique needs and lower the risk of future adverse reactions.

How Can You Stay Safe With a Tree Nut Allergy?

As with most food allergies, the best way to prevent an adverse reaction is to avoid eating tree nuts. It's important to be mindful of the ingredients of the foods you eat. Keep in mind that baked goods can contain tree nuts or nut extracts. Also, be aware that tree nuts can be present in sauces, dressings, pesto, candies and even some processed meats. Make sure to read all food labels and look out for not only the named nut but also terms like "natural flavor" or "nut oils," which may indicate their presence. 

If you plan to eat out, call ahead and speak to the chef or restaurant manager. Ask about the dishes they serve and the possibility of cross-contamination. If they cannot guarantee that your dish is safe for you, you may want to opt for a different restaurant.

Be prepared. No matter how safe you feel, there's always a chance of accidental exposure. In the event of a severe reaction, use your epinephrine auto-injector immediately and call 911 for assistance.

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Helping Families Navigate Tree Nut Allergies

Safe2Bite offers a unique, whole-person approach to food allergy treatment, combining medical excellence with personalized support. With access to leading food allergy treatment options, we guide families toward better health.

The following is a look at our care model.

Convenient
Appointments

We begin with a telehealth consultation from the comfort of your home. Our food allergy specialist will discuss your symptoms and medical history to best prepare for your in-person visit.

Comprehensive In-Clinic
Assessment

Our food allergy specialist and team will conduct precise food allergy testing. The goal is to uncover the causes of your concerns to get you on track to the most effective treatment and management plan.

Whole-Person
Treatment Plans

Our food allergy specialist will work alongside you to create a comprehensive treatment plan to best manage your allergies. Your plan will also address nutritional needs, behavioral support, and anxiety management, addressing the whole person, mind, body, and lifestyle.

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Your Top Tree Nut Allergy Questions Answered

We Help North Texas Families Manage
Tree Nut Allergies

Are you in search of tree nut allergy treatment in Dallas-Fort Worth? Our board-certified allergist at Safe2Bite offers advanced tree nut allergy testing and personalized treatment for children and adults in North Texas. From pistachio allergy in children to almond allergy symptoms, you can count on us for treatment that exceeds your expectations. We invite you to call (469) 916-5504 or book your consultation today.

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