A tree nut allergy is an immune response to proteins in tree nuts when it is digested, handled or particles are inhaled. A person can be allergic to one tree nut and not to another, or allergic to all. They can also be allergic to peanuts.

Tree nut allergy can be life threatening and an EpiPen should be carried at all times in case of an emergency. Symptoms usually occur within minutes and can be mild or life threatening. It is common in young children and is less likely to be outgrown.

Tree nut families and types of tree nuts are:

• Walnut: walnuts, pecans
• Mango: Pistachio, cashews
• Legythis: brazil
• Beech: beechnut, chestnut
• Birch: hazelnut, filbert, hickory nut
• Plum: almond
• Macadamia