Wheat Allergy

Overview

Wheat allergy is an allergic reaction to foods containing wheat. It occurs when a person's immune system produces antibodies to proteins found in wheat. Symptoms of wheat allergy can include swelling, itching, or irritation of the mouth or throat, hives, itchy rash, nasal congestion, headache, difficulty breathing, cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anaphylaxis in severe cases. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Wheat allergy is different from celiac disease, which is caused by an abnormal immune system reaction to gluten in wheat. If you suspect wheat allergy or another food allergy, it is important to consult your doctor.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of wheat allergy include:

1. Swelling, itching or irritation of the mouth or throat
2. Hives, itchy rash or swelling of the skin
3. Nasal congestion
4. Headache
5. Difficulty breathing
6. Cramps, nausea or vomiting
7. Diarrhea In some cases, a wheat allergy may cause a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis, which can lead to additional symptoms such as:

• Swelling or tightness of the throat
• Chest pain or tightness
• Severe difficulty breathing
• Trouble swallowing
• Pale, blue skin color
• Dizziness or fainting

Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing wheat allergy include:

1. Family history: If your parents or other family members have food allergies, asthma, eczema, hives, or hay fever, you are at an increased risk of developing a wheat allergy.
2. Other allergies: If you already have allergies, such as hay fever or eczema, you may be more likely to develop a wheat allergy or another food allergy.
3. Age: Wheat allergy is most common in babies and toddlers, who have immature immune and digestive systems. However, adults can also develop wheat allergy, often as a result of cross-sensitivity to grass pollen. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect a wheat allergy or any other food allergy, as proper diagnosis and management are crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Development

Wheat allergy develops when your body produces antibodies to proteins found in wheat. There are four classes of wheat proteins, and you can develop an allergy to any of them: albumin, globulin, gliadin, and gluten. Exposure to a wheat protein primes your immune system for an allergic reaction. Wheat allergy is most common in babies and toddlers, who have immature immune and digestive systems. Most children outgrow wheat allergy by the age of 16, but adults can develop it, often as a cross-sensitivity to grass pollen.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

Consult your doctor if you or your child experience any of the following symptoms after consuming wheat or coming into contact with wheat flour:

1. Swelling, itching or irritation of the mouth or throat
2. Hives, itchy rash or swelling of the skin
3. Nasal congestion
4. Headache
5. Difficulty breathing
6. Cramps, nausea or vomiting
7. Diarrhea
8. If the reaction is severe and includes symptoms such as swelling or tightness of the throat, chest pain or tightness, severe difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, pale, blue skin color, dizziness, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention as it might be anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a wheat allergy, your doctor will typically follow these steps:

1. Physical exam: The doctor will perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions or medical problems that may cause similar symptoms.
2. Medical history: A detailed medical history of the patient, including their symptoms and any family history of allergies, will be taken.
3. Skin test: A skin prick test may be conducted by applying purified allergen extracts, including wheat proteins, onto the patient's skin. The skin is then examined for any allergic reactions after 15 minutes.
4. Blood test: If a skin test is not possible, a blood test may be ordered to screen for specific allergy-causing antibodies to common allergens, including wheat proteins. Remember that it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of wheat allergy may include:

1. Anaphylaxis: Wheat allergy can lead to a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include swelling or tightness of the throat, chest pain or tightness, severe difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, pale, blue skin color, dizziness, or fainting.
2. Food-induced anaphylaxis: Individuals with wheat allergy are at a higher risk of experiencing anaphylaxis when accidentally exposed to wheat through food, as even trace amounts of wheat can cause a reaction in highly sensitive individuals.
3. Delayed onset of symptoms: In some cases, wheat allergy symptoms may not appear immediately after consumption, but instead develop hours later, making it difficult to identify the cause of the reaction.
4. Prolonged symptoms: In some individuals, wheat allergy symptoms may last for several hours or even days, leading to discomfort and potentially contributing to other health issues.
5. Reduced quality of life: Avoiding wheat in daily meals and being cautious of hidden sources of wheat in processed foods can be challenging and may impact the individual's social life, dining experiences, and overall quality of life. It is essential to maintain a close relationship with healthcare providers and carefully read food labels to minimize the risk of accidental exposure and potential complications associated with wheat allergy.

Prevention

Home Remedies

If you suspect a wheat allergy, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance on managing the allergy.

Treatment

The primary treatment for wheat allergy is avoiding foods containing wheat. However, since wheat is found in many foods, it may not always be easy to avoid it. In some cases, medications may be necessary to manage allergic reactions if accidental exposure occurs. Antihistamines and epinephrine auto-injectors can help alleviate symptoms and treat severe reactions. In cases of anaphylaxis, emergency medical care is necessary. Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance on managing wheat allergy.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for wheat allergy, you should:

1. Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to an allergy.
2. Include your family's history of allergy and asthma, including specific types of allergies.
3. List any medications, vitamins, or supplements you or your child is taking.
4. Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as whether the symptoms are likely due to an allergy, if you need allergy tests, if you should see an allergist, and if you need to carry epinephrine in case of anaphylaxis.
5. Ask your doctor for brochures or other printed material and recommendations for additional information from reputable sources.
6. Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and follow any instructions provided.
7. Keep a food diary and consider an elimination diet under your doctor's guidance.
8. Be prepared for potential food challenge testing, where you gradually consume increasing amounts of the suspected allergy-causing food while being monitored for symptoms. Remember that avoiding wheat proteins is the best treatment for wheat allergy. Carefully read food product labels and consult with your doctor or allergist for guidance on managing your allergy.