Scalp itching may sound like an odd symptom of a wheat allergy, but if the allergic reaction causes an outbreak of hives or atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, it may not be that uncommon. If you've been diagnosed with a wheat allergy, you need to avoid all foods that contain wheat proteins. Eating foods that contain wheat may lead to a severe allergic reaction. If you have not been diagnosed with a wheat allergy, make an appointment with an allergist to determine if your itchy scalp is the result of an allergic reaction to wheat.
Wheat Allergy
Wheat is one of the most common food allergies. A wheat allergy is the result of an immune system reaction that involves the creation of immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation. If your immune system mistakes one or more of the proteins found in wheat as dangerous, your body will creates various chemicals to defend the body. A wheat allergy is not the same condition as gluten intolerance, called celiac disease. An allergic reaction to wheat may be the result of eating or inhaling flour that contains wheat proteins.
Scalp Itch Cause
Your scalp itch is the result of skin irritation that may develop in your scalp and other parts of your body. Skin rashes typically develop within minutes of ingesting wheat proteins and may cause severe itching, burning and irritation. The cause of allergic rashes is increased levels of histamine, a chemical that's released by mast cells when IgE antibodies enter your bloodstream. Histamine in your skin causes your blood vessels to dilate, causing swelling and extreme itch. Your doctor will observe the type of rash that develops on your scalp to determine the best treatment options.
Rash Types
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that the most common allergic skin conditions include hives and eczema. Hives will appear in clusters that can change shape and size in a matter minutes. Hives are red in color, cause the skin to rise from the surface and are flat on top. Eczema causes blisters to develop that fill with liquid. This skin reaction is also itchy but will weep, burst and crust over when scratched.
Treatment
If you ingest or inhale wheat proteins that lead to scalp itch, your doctor may recommend that you take an antihistamine and apply a topical steroid cream to your scalp. The most effective way to prevent an allergic reaction to wheat is to avoid all products that contain wheat proteins. The federal government requires that all packaged foods include an allergy warning label on foods that contain wheat.
