Having a runny nose may be a sign of more than just the sniffles. If you develop a runny nose every time you ingest gluten, along with other symptoms, you need to talk with your doctor. Gluten is a protein found in certain foods that is not harmful to most people. The protein is commonly associated with two conditions -- celiac disease and a gluten allergy. A runny nose may be a sign of a gluten allergy, which may lead to further complications.
Gluten Allergy
A gluten allergy is commonly confused with celiac disease, an autoimmune digestive disorder that causes stomach pain, weight loss and malnourishment. Unlike celiac disease, a gluten allergy happens when your immune system mistakes the protein as a harmful substance. Immune system cells protect the body by identifying harmful substances that enter the body, such as infectious organisms. Although gluten is safe for human consumption, the immune system attacks it as if it is dangerous, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. This causes the production of various chemicals that cause common allergy symptoms.
Runny Nose
A runny nose is the result of irritation to the nasal tissues and increased mucus production that causes discharge to run out of your nose and down the back of your throat. When mucus slowly drips down your throat, it is referred to as "post-nasal drip" and can cause a sore throat, coughing and bad breath. After your immune system mistakes gluten as a dangerous substance, the immune system releases immunoglobulin E antibodies and histamine throughout the body. Histamine is a hormone in the body that protects against infection, but it also causes irritation and inflammation in soft tissues.
Treatment
Treating a runny nose that results from a gluten allergy will require avoidance and medication. The most-effective way to prevent a runny nose from a gluten allergy is to avoid all foods that may contain gluten, such as pasta, bread, crackers, ketchup and lunch meats. If you accidentally ingest gluten, talk with your doctor about using an antihistamine and decongestant to alleviate symptoms. Antihistamines block white blood cells from creating too much histamine and decongestants help treat and prevent nasal congestion.
Concerns
As with any food allergy, consuming gluten may lead to life-threatening symptoms. If you develop a runny nose along with swelling of the throat, face or lips, hives, shortness of breathe, pale skin, stomach pain, mental confusion, lightheadedness and dizziness, call 911.
