Wheat intolerance is a chronic condition where a person's body is unable to process gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat products, such as pasta, breads and cakes. Gluten intolerance is different than a gluten or wheat allergy. There is no cure for a wheat intolerance; it is best managed by modifying the diet to avoid the consumption of wheat products, according to MayoClinic.com.
Consideration
Although wheat intolerance affects people in different ways, a runny nose is not a common symptom, according to KidsHealth.org. A runny nose from consuming wheat products may be a sign that the patient has a wheat allergy. A wheat allergy is tested and diagnosed by an allergist through skin and blood tests. Once a wheat allergy is confirmed or ruled out, the allergist will provide a recommendation for the most effective treatment.
Wheat Intolerance Symptoms
Most wheat intolerance symptoms are related to the digestive system. The most common include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, weight loss and foul-smelling stools, according to MedlinePlus. Other symptoms include mouth sores, muscle cramps, anemia, irritability, depression, skin rashes, tingling in the legs and feet and joint pain. If any of these symptoms develop after consuming wheat products, discontinue eating and call a physician for advice.
Wheat Allergy Symptoms
A wheat allergy will cause common food allergy symptoms, including a runny nose, according to MayoClinic.com. Wheat allergy symptoms mainly affect the skin, the sinuses and the digestive tract. The skin can develop a rash, such as eczema or hives that can show up anywhere on the body. The sinuses can become inflamed, over-producing mucus, leading to nasal congestion, a runny nose and post-nasal drip. Common digestive wheat allergy symptoms include gas, bloating and diarrhea.
Treatment
The only treatment available for someone suffering from wheat intolerance is to modify the diet to avoid gluten. Do not change the diet before being properly diagnosed by a doctor, warns MedlinePlus. Treat wheat allergy by taking an over-the-counter antihistamine. Antihistamines treat common allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, watery eyes and hives.
Consideration
If someone has an allergic reaction after consuming wheat products, he should attempt to see a doctor while the symptoms persist. This will provide the doctor with the best information for proper diagnosis. If the reaction is from an allergy to wheat, it could lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition.
