If you develop sinus symptoms from eating foods that contain gluten, you may need to see your doctor for a clinical diagnosis. The sinus cavity is made of soft tissues that are highly sensitive to irritants and environmental changes. During an allergic reaction to gluten, you sinus cavity may become inflamed and swell, leading to a wide range of symptoms. There is no cure for a gluten allergy. Your doctor will recommend a gluten-free diet to prevent symptoms and further complications.
Gluten Allergy
Gluten is one of five proteins found in wheat and is commonly associated with a wheat allergy. Gluten is also found in other grains, such as barely and rye, which can trigger an allergic reaction. If you're allergic to gluten, your immune system overreacts when you ingest foods that contain the protein. The immune system mistakes the gluten as a dangerous substance that can harm the body and attacks it with various chemicals, such as antibodies and histamine. MayoClinic.com states that a gluten allergy is not the same condition as gluten intolerance or Celiac disease. Only a medical doctor can determine which condition is causing your symptoms.
Sinus Symptoms
One of the primary chemicals released during an allergic reaction is histamine. This is a hormone in the body that helps protect soft tissues from infection. During an allergic reaction to gluten, excessive amounts of histamine are released in soft tissues, such as in the sinuses. The increase in histamine causes inflammation and increased mucus production, cutting off your ability to breathe through your nose. This can lead to a stuffy nose, runny nose, facial tenderness, headaches, post-nasal drip, throat irritation and coughing, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Treatment
Most sinus symptoms are treated with over-the-counter medications. Decongestants help restrict blood flow to the sinus tissue, alleviating the inflammation. Antihistamines may help prevent your body from making too much histamine and pain relievers can help treat any head pain that sinus pressure causes. The use of saline sprays and nasal rinses may help treat nasal inflammation. The most effective way to prevent sinus allergy symptoms from a gluten allergy is to avoid consuming gluten.
Gluten-Free Diet
Your doctor may recommend a gluten-free diet. This entails avoiding common foods that contain gluten, such as pasta, breads, crackers, cookies and whole-wheat flour. Purchase foods certified gluten-free and foods that naturally do not contain gluten, such as fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, rice, soy and tapioca flour.
References
- American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology: Allergic Reactions: Tips to Remember
- "University of Maryland Medical Center"; Nasal Congestion - Overview; Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA; November 2009
- MayoClinic.com: Wheat Allergy
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Wheat Allergy
- MayoClinic.com: Gluten-Free Diet
