Is it possible to develop a peanut allergy all of a sudden later in life?

I had a really bad time last night. Around 11:00 PM I was hungry so I ate a snack of 2 ounces of peanuts. I opened up a new jar of peanuts. About 20 minutes later I developed a horrible and painful itching all over my body and extremities. I couldn't stop itching. I couldn't itch fast enough! I never experienced itching like that. It lasted about 50 minutes. Seems like an allergic reaction. But I never had a reaction to peanuts in my life. Is it possible to develop a peanut allergy late in life? Now, I'm afraid to eat peanuts. When I eat peanuts again, I'm going to try just a half ounce and see what happens. Anyway, needless to say, I threw away that jar of peanuts!! Any thoughts?

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DukeOfEarle · M Best Comment

Some allergies can develop later in life. As a kid I was allergic to nothing. Now? Tree pollen. Itchy eyes, sore throat, the works. So yes it is very possible. Best way to know for sure? Try some peanuts again in a few days. If you have the same reaction, you’re probably right.

flipper1966 · M

@DukeOfEarle That's what I plan. But not the two ounces I ate last night. I'll try a half ounce. I don't want to go through that again!!