Peanut

While many people assume all allergies are the same, my peanut allergy is oddly specific. When I ingest peanuts, my reaction is immediate and physical. My mouth and throat begin to swell, creating a sensation that is less like a sharp pain and more like an overwhelming, suffocating discomfort. It is a frightening experience, as in the moment, I feel a sense of dread, as if my body is shutting down. The only way I find relief is by getting the peanuts out of my system (through vomiting) and taking allergy medication like Zyrtec. Even after that, I'm left completely drained of energy, and my entire day is ruined.

One of the most frustrating challenges has been navigating food safety while in Korea. Restaurant labeling isn’t always as clear as it needs to be. I have frequently been reassured a dish was safe, only to eventually have a reaction. This is especially common with peanut sauces, which have triggered some of my scariest reactions where my throat feels like it is closing up.

Interestingly, my allergy is unique in that I'm not allergic to peanut oil. I can eat at places like Five Guys or Chick-fil-A without any issues. Additionally, I don’t react to items manufactured in a facility with peanuts. Because I don't require an EpiPen, my situation is in a middle ground. It's not always life threatening, but still something I can't overlook.