A wheat allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to certain proteins found in wheat, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Most people with a wheat allergy are under age 3 and outgrow the condition by adulthood. Mild signs and symptoms of a wheat allergy are treated with over-the-counter antihistamines, according to MayoClinic.com. More severe allergic reactions may require an injection of epinephrine. If you experience adverse symptoms when you eat wheat products, talk with your doctor for proper testing.
Nasal Congestion
A common sign of a wheat allergy is nasal congestion. Because of increased levels of histamine in the body, the sinus cavity can become inflamed and swollen. The swollen nasal passages block the body from properly draining the mucus in the sinuses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This leads to sinus pressure felt throughout the head, such as in the eyes, cheeks and forehead. Nasal congestion can lead to postnasal drip, sinusitis and a stuffy nose. Nasal congestion can be treated with decongestants that reduce the amount of blood into the sinuses, alleviating inflammation.
Skin Reactions
A skin reaction is common with a wheat allergy. A skin rash will develop within a few minutes after eating wheat, according to MayoClinc.com. Common skin rashes include hives, eczema and general itching. All three conditions cause the skin to become inflamed and itchy. Hives can develop anywhere on the body and appear in groups or clusters with defined borders. Hives are flat on top and look like welts. Eczema is small, red blisters that can weep and crust over. The skin can generally become itchy or produce a tingling sensation, especially in the mouth and throat.
Digestive Issues
The digestive system will develop certain signs with a wheat allergy. Digestive issues from a wheat allergy are similar to those of a wheat intolerance, or celiac disease. Talk with a doctor to determine the appropriate condition. Digestive issues include cramping, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating and abdominal pain, according to MayoClinic.com. Histamine in the gut causes the lining of the intestines to become inflamed, leading to digestive issues. There is no effective treatment for digestive issues related to a wheat allergy except to avoid consuming wheat and waiting for the body to expel the wheat proteins.
Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic shock signs and symptoms from a wheat allergy include anxiety, confusion, cramping, a sudden drop in blood pressure, diarrhea, breathing difficulty, nausea, dizziness, slurred speech and a faint pulse, according to MedlinePlus. Anaphylactic shock symptoms require immediate medical attention.
