Wheat Allergy Symptoms

Allergies are quite common and people from all age groups tend to suffer from them, the symptoms of which may range from mild to severe. An allergy may occur when the immune system expels foreign bodies, which may cause reaction. It can be confined to a small part, or may spread to other parts of the body, depending on the nature and cause of the allergy.

Some people are naturally allergic to certain foodstuffs if they consume or even come in contact with them. It is also referred to as food intolerance. Certain foods that may trigger an allergy are wheat, dairy products, nuts, shellfish, and even meat in some cases. The intensity of this disorder can be corrected with the help of timely medical intervention and practicing dietary restrictions.

Wheat allergy or wheat intolerance arises when the body is unable to assimilate or is sensitive to wheat or any products made from wheat.

Certain people are found to be unable to digest gluten, a protein that is present in wheat. This gives rise to celiac disease, an auto-immune disease that is caused because the small intestine is sensitive to gluten.

Though wheat allergy occurs due to gluten indigestion, the cause of wheat intolerance is still unknown. In some cases, genetics is believed to be the cause of wheat allergy.

Since gluten-wheat allergy damages the intestinal walls, leading to restricted absorption of the food consumed, various symptoms are observed.

• Fatigue is one of the major gluten intolerance symptoms, and is a sign that the absorption capacity of the small intestine has declined due to intolerance to gluten. This can further lead to severe fatigue.

• A tingling sensation experienced in the legs, muscle cramps, depression, severe headache, irritability and mouth ulcers are other common gluten allergy symptoms.
• Gluten allergy can also lead to serious health conditions like Crohn's disease, keratosis, autism, osteoporosis and asthma.

• Decline in dental health, difficulty in breathing while exercising, skin allergies like dermatitis, skin hives and swelling around the mouth are some of the other symptoms of gluten wheat allergy.
• Diverticulitis i.e. the inflammation of the diverticulum, especially the colon, in the digestive tract followed by painful abdominal cramping, constipation and high fever are also signs of wheat allergy.

A substance rejected by the body is exhibited in the form of symptoms. Similarly when the body is unable to digest wheat or gluten, it will indicate the same as an allergic reaction. If you observe any of these symptoms, then there is a possibility that you are intolerant to wheat.

• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting and feeling of nausea
• Bloating of stomach

• Flatulence and constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Stomach cramps and diarrhea
• Lethargy and loss of appetite
• Skin diseases like eczema, itchy and flaky skin, psoriasis and skin rashes
• Loss of immunity that may cause poor resistance to infections
• Arthritis
• Mouth ulcers

Kids also tend to suffer from wheat allergy, and if left undiagnosed or untreated it could also be life-threatening. If your baby is suffering from wheat allergy, you will notice the following symptoms.

• Chronic or ongoing vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with traces of blood in the stools

• Swelling of the body and appearance of rashes or hives
• Trouble in breathing properly
• Behavioral difficulties and irritability
• Loss of appetite and abdominal pain
• Anemia
• Dry mouth

People suffering from this allergy are normally advised against consuming products that may have wheat in them. A diagnostic test is carried out before administering treatment, in order to determine the intensity of the disorder.

Antihistamines help reduce the symptoms, control reaction and relieve discomfort. Epinephrine is also prescribed in case of anaphylaxis. In some cases, where the symptoms are quite serious, hospitalization may be required till the disorder is corrected.

It is always important to read product labels before purchasing, so that you are aware of the ingredients. Avoiding wheat and its products completely is another way of preventing an allergy.

There are many gluten-free foods (specially formulated for people suffering from wheat allergies and celiac disease) that are available in supermarkets and food stores. If you are attending a party or eating out, make sure to communicate your problem to the host or restaurant staff. Always keep your medication handy, in case of emergency.

If you observe any wheat intolerance symptoms in you or your children, it is advisable to consult a dietitian who will help you draw out a diet plan in order to prevent symptoms and complications of wheat allergy.