A gluten allergy is an autoimmune condition in which your body reacts to a group of proteins that naturally occur in wheat, rye, and barley products. A diagnosed gluten allergy, called celiac disease, is believed to affect 1 in 133 people, the Gluten Intolerance Group states. Symptoms for a gluten allergy are varied, but sometimes the allergy appears as a skin rash, acne, and even a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease is a serious medical condition that requires a lifelong dietary avoidance of gluten, and it is a chronic, inherited disease that could lead to malnutrition if left untreated. The Gluten Intolerance Group explains that gluten damages the small intestines, and eventually inhibits the intestines' ability to absorb nutrients. While the classic symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, upset stomach, or constipation, some children with celiac disease may exhibit behavioral or concentration challenges, growth failure, and irritability. Diagnosis is a two-part test that checks for the presence of antibodies in your blood that would attack gluten and a biopsy examination of your small intestine to detect any damage.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
The Gluten Intolerance Group states that dermatitis herpetiformis is a skin condition marked by watery, itchy blister clusters that may resemble pimples or acne. When an individual with a gluten allergy consumes gluten, an immunoglobulin deposits a substance under the skin that causes it to become red and raised in small lesions that resemble pimples. If you have dermatitis herpetiformis, the Gluten Intolerance Group explains, you are always gluten allergic.
Acne
Kids Health states that acne, an adolescent skin condition related to changes in oil production and clogged skin pores, is not caused by specific food intake. It concedes that some individuals do seem to have worse breakouts as a result of eating certain foods, but this varies by the individual. If your acne is severe, consult a dermatologist to test for skin conditions, including dermatitis herpetiformis, and discuss options for treating acne. Most acne will resolve once the adolescent reaches adulthood.
Avoiding Gluten
Before removing gluten from the diet, be sure to get tested for an allergy, because the test looks for antibodies that can become scarce once the offending protein is absent from the body. If you are diagnosed with celiac disease, then you will need to remove all gluten from your diet. Wheat, barley, and rye products should not be consumed. In addition, products made with those ingredients should be avoided, and these include sauces, condiments, marinades and beers. Carefully scrutinize ingredient labels and allergen warnings for the presence of gluten. Become familiar with other sources of gluten as well, such as certain cosmetic products, toothpastes, dietary supplements and medications.
Treatment for Skin
Following a gluten-free diet is the required treatment for dermatitis herpetiformis, but some individuals can also take medications prescribed by their dermatologist. It can take two or more years for the skin to completely clear up, and adherence to the gluten-free diet is important to prevent any new eruptions. The Gluten Intolerance Group states that occasionally dietary iodine can cause a reaction, so discuss your health with your physician and dermatologist if you suspect additional reactions. Do not eliminate iodine without consulting your physician, as it is an extremely important nutrient.
