Most food-related allergies occur in children under 5 years old. Gluten allergies are commonly confused with a condition called celiac disease, where the immune system attacks the lining of the child's intestines. The two conditions are easily confused because they both trigger gastrointestinal symptoms after eating foods that contain gluten. Your child's pediatrician will perform tests and recommend the most effective treatment options.
Gluten Allergies
Gluten is a protein that is fond in different grains and foods. Gluten allergies are commonly associated with wheat allergies in children. Wheat is considered one of the most common food allergies that can lead to a wide range of symptoms. Gluten is found in other grains, such as barely and rye and is added to various foods, such as lunch meats, ice cream and ketchup. In order for your child to receive a clinical diagnosis of a gluten allergy, your child's body must create immunoglobulin E antibodies that work to fight off the gluten, according to Kids Health.
Symptoms
A genuine allergy to gluten will cause different symptoms to develop in various parts of the child's body. An allergic reaction to gluten may cause upper respiratory symptoms ranging from a runny nose, stuffy nose, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, wheezing, chest tightness and throat swelling. Your child's skin may become blotchy, bumpy and red, triggering the formation of hives, eczema or general skin rashes. The digestive system may develop symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain and cramping. If your child develops an increased heart rate, appears to be pale and looks faint, call 911.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is not an allergy to gluten, but is commonly confused with a gluten allergy. Celiac disease is an auto-immune condition where the immune system attacks the tiny hairlike villi that line your digestive system. After consuming gluten, your child may experience pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Celiac disease may also cause other symptoms to develop, such as fatigue, seizures, tingling in the hands or feet, canker sores and bone loss, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. If this condition is left untreated, your child can become malnourished, lose weight and develop further digestive complications. Celiac disease is treated with a strict elimination diet.
Considerations
Your doctor may recommend allergy tests to determine whether or not your child's body creates immunoglobulin E after gluten is introduced into a sample of your child's blood. Both gluten-related conditions require a gluten-free diet. Purchase products that are labeled "gluten-free" or buy foods that are naturally gluten-free. Naturally gluten-free foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meats and dairy products.
