Dextrose is a type of sugar derived from wheat. According to Act Against Allergy, although dextrose is a byproduct of wheat, it does not commonly cause an allergic reaction in people with a diagnosed wheat allergy. Before consuming or using dextrose as a supplement, talk with your doctor. If you have a severe allergic reaction to wheat, your doctor may recommend you avoid consuming dextrose.
Dextrose Background
Dextrose is commonly administered intravenously to patients who are unable to eat or keep the body hydrated. Dextrose provides the patient with the essential sugar needed to keep the body functioning normally. According to Drugs.com, you should talk with your doctor before using dextrose if you are pregnant, have allergies to certain foods or medications, if you are taking any medications or supplements, suffer from mental confusion or have been diagnosed with diabetes. Care also should be taken before giving dextrose to a patient in a coma.
About Wheat Allergy
A wheat allergy occurs when the immune system fails to recognize the proteins found in wheat as safe and harmless. The immune system begins to defend itself from the proteins by creating IgE antibodies and histamine, according to MayoClinic.com. Most wheat allergy symptoms develop within a few minutes after someone has consumed wheat products. A wheat allergy is often confused with wheat intolerance, or celiac disease. Wheat intolerance is not an immune system hypersensitivity; rather, it is a defect in the digestive system.
Symptoms
If you experience symptoms after ingesting dextrose, discontinue use and talk with your doctor. Common symptoms of a wheat allergy include digestive distress, skin reactions and allergic rhinitis, according to Act Against Allergy. Digestive distress symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, cramping, bloating and gas. Skin reactions can manifest themselves as hives, eczema or general itching of the skin. Allergic rhinitis results in nasal congestion, sinus pressure pain and post-nasal drip.
Treatment
Avoidance is the considered the most effective treatment, according to MayoClinic.com. If dextrose or wheat is consumed, minor allergy symptoms can be treated by applying hydrocortisone cream to the affected areas and taking an oral antihistamine. These medications will help alleviate nasal congestion, skin reactions and eye irritation.
Complication
A severe allergic reaction will require emergency medical attention. A common complication of an allergic reaction to dextrose or wheat is anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is an entire-body allergic reaction that causes the body to experience a state of shock. An epinephrine injection is the best treatment for this life-threatening condition.
