Allergic Reaction Caused by Wheat and Its Treatment

Kids and adults love to eat ice creams, burgers, pizzas, etc., at all times, where wheat is the primary ingredient used in many foods, and anybody can be allergic to it. Wheat allergy is a common food allergy affecting people of all ages. Wheat allergy is an allergic reaction that one might have without even their knowledge.

The symptoms of this allergy can be either minimal or life-threatening. Still, it should never be ignored, and proper treatment plans should be implemented under the supervision of a doctor. Read on to learn about the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage wheat allergies.

The allergic reaction to wheat foods as an ingredient is what causes a wheat allergy. In some cases, if someone even inhales wheat flour, the symptoms can occur. It is one of the most common allergies found in kids but rare in the case of adults.

A person with mild allergies will have headaches, an itchy, and congested nose. In some cases, these allergies may lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction.

Wheat allergies are not straightforward primarily because they comprise various types and steps of allergic reactions. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

As earlier stated, an allergic reaction to wheat normally results from ingesting food containing wheat products; hence, it is necessary to find the respective foods to avoid. Foods with wheat protein that can cause allergic reactions are listed below.

Individuals allergic to wheat have a variety of symptoms that can reflect within a few minutes or hours. This includes:

The healthcare provider will first obtain relevant information about the patient’s condition and perform a physical examination to determine the main signs and symptoms of the ailment. If necessary, allergy tests, such as skin pricks or blood tests, to search for IgE antibodies to certain wheat proteins may be performed.

You may be put on an elimination diet in which you refrain from consuming wheat products to determine whether or not this helps with the symptoms. Then, the accused substance may be introduced again to see if the same symptoms reoccur.

Sometimes, qualified medical personnel confirm a diagnosis by an oral food challenge. The same applies where other physical conditions that may present a picture of similar symptoms are also ruled out.

The best way to treat it is to avoid wheat protein-rich foods. This can be difficult as almost all food items contain wheat protein. A food diary can help you keep track of the foods you should avoid.

Doctors prescribe some drugs to treat wheat allergy includes:

• Antihistamines: A drug that can reduce wheat's minor allergic signs and symptoms.
• Epinephrine: This drug is used as an emergency treatment for anaphylaxis.
• Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and manage severe or persistent allergic reactions.
• Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists: Block substances that contribute to allergic reactions, which are helpful for related symptoms like asthma.
• Immunotherapy: Includes allergy shots or sublingual tablets to gradually desensitize the immune system (used in some cases).

Avoid foods that contain wheat protein, like bread and cereal extracts. Moreover, there are several ways on how to get rid of wheat allergies, that includes:

• Keep yourself and others around you informed about your allergy to wheat.
• Always read the labels of each food product you buy.
• Try to get your hands on gluten-free foods when you shop.
• Refer to cookbooks to get fresh ideas on recipes excluding wheat.
• Stay alert for wheat-based food when you dine out.
• If you suffer from anaphylaxis, carry epinephrine doses when you venture out.

A person should avoid food items like:

• Baked products
• Breakfast cereals
• Beverages with wheat protein content
• Gelatinised starch and modified food starch
• Someone may also feel the effects if they exercise within a few hours of wheat protein consumption.
• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein.
• Certain dairy products may contain wheat-based additives.
• Hot dogs and processed meats can include wheat-based fillers or binders.
• Soy sauce often contains wheat, affecting flavour and texture.

 

Wheat allergy should never be confused with celiac disease, which is a gluten allergy. Wheat not only contains gluten but several other proteins that can cause allergies. This allergy in kids vanishes within 12 years of their age. But if it remains, a physician must be consulted to prevent further complications that can be a threat to your life.