Gluten Allergy
What is a Gluten Allergy?
Gluten is a rubber like protein, usually found in barley, wheat and oats. This is the component which helps the dough to bind. Breads and other baked products can trigger an allergic reaction in people who suffer from a gluten allergy.
Symptoms
A person who suffers from this kind of allergy will experience hives, abdominal cramps or swelling if they come in contact with gluten. The severity of gluten allergy symptoms varies from one person to another. In some cases when the affected person is extremely sensitive, it can be life threatening.
Diagnosis
A gluten allergy reaction is very easy to detect. It often occurs right after eating wheat products such as bread so recognizing the connection between the food and the reaction is sometimes not a challenge. The only challenge is that most of our foods are made with some wheat content which makes it really hard to identify what food caused the allergy. An allergist can do a skin prick test to confirm which food is the problem and to properly diagnosis a gluten allergy.
Treatment
For most people who have a gluten allergy, the best course of action is to minimize the amount of gluten in their diets. Many products are now available gluten-free in supermarkets but dining out can be hazardous, particularly for people who have a severe sensitivity. Vitamin supplements are also usually needed because the individual will be missing out on nutrients found in bread products, including niacin, thiamin, iron, riboflavin, magnesium, selenium, chromium, and phosphorus.
Allergy Management
To avoid accidental exposure and to ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for a severe gluten allergy reaction, you must wear a medical bracelet or carry a medical card that provides this information to health care workers when you are unable to.