Wheat Allergy
Dealing with a Wheat Allergy
Like other food allergies, a wheat allergy can cause serious health complications. Unlike an allergy to shellfish or peanuts, avoid wheat can be more challenging. The proteins found in wheat which trigger the reaction can be found in many foods and products.
Symptoms
Here are some of the most common symptoms of wheat allergy:
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes
• Bloating
• Mood swings
• Swelling of tongue and throat
• Coughing
• Eye irritation
• Stuffy nose
People can become confused at times, because the symptoms mentioned above can, also, be associated with some medical conditions which is why getting the proper diagnosis early is important.
Diagnosis
A doctor will want to know your symptoms and may ask you to keep a food diary so the connection between what you are eating and the emergence of the symptoms can become clear. Skin tests can also be conducted to determine the specific allergen causing your symptoms.
Treatment
You will need to avoid eating anything that involves wheat or wheat proteins. Additionally, you may be able to receive prescription medications from your doctor that will help alleviate those symptoms in the event you do come in contact with wheat.
Prognosis
A wheat allergy is difficult to manage but if it is not managed then you could develop anaphylaxis which is a severe and potentially fatal complication from the allergic reaction. Your doctor may give you a prescription for medication that can be taken in case of an emergency reaction.
Allergy Management
With a wheat allergy, having a medical card on hand can ensure you get the appropriate treatment when necessary and can ensure you are not accidentally given anything that contains those dangerous wheat proteins.