Illness from oat allergies produces the same effects as allergic reactions to wheat, a grain with a similar protein makeup. Among the top eight types of allergenic foods, as cited by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these grains can cause health problems in children and adults after they eat even a tiny portion. Identifying and managing food allergies can help you avoid not just allergy symptoms but potentially life-threatening allergy attacks.
Function
Some people's immune systems record and "remember" the structures of allergenic proteins, such as those in oats and wheat. Every time those allergens enter the body, an allergic reaction occurs. The immune system sends forth chemicals to repel what it mistakenly interprets as harmful invaders.
This process changes normal metabolism to create certain health side effects, which arise as allergy symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, individuals with wheat or oat allergies may be sensitive to barley and rye grains as well.
Effects
Histamines in the bloodstream cause many of the symptoms of oat allergies. MayoClinic.com notes that itching can occur in the eyes, mouth or throat, or accompany a red rash that forms hives. Fluids may accumulate in the nasal passages, resulting in runny nose and congestion. Any of these areas may become swollen and tender.
Allergic reactions to foods create digestive upset, including nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea. Rare cases in which the blood vessels dilate can cause anaphylactic symptoms of abnormal heartbeat, weakness and trouble breathing.
Warning
Anaphylactic allergy symptoms can swiftly grow worse. The National Institutes of Health advises patients to call 911 as soon as they notice an escalating allergic reaction. Low blood-oxygen levels resulting from a drop in blood pressure combined with restricted breathing can cause fainting, respiratory arrest, multiple organ failure and death.
Time Frame
Many children who have oat and wheat allergies lose their sensitivities while they are young, but adult onset usually means a lifelong condition, according to the NIH. Eye, skin, mouth and nasal symptoms may appear immediately after a person eats oats or foods that contain oat products. Allergy symptoms in the stomach and lower digestive tract will arise more gradually but usually occur within an hour of oat consumption. Conditions of anaphylaxis can come on suddenly, then fade and recur.
Prevention
As the CDC notes, allergies cannot be cured. Patients can prevent mild to severe consequences from oat allergies by eliminating oats and related grains from their diets. The CDC recommends keeping an emergency epinephrine injector on hand to deter anaphylactic shock in the case of accidental oat ingestion.
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