Wheat allergies are sometimes confused with celiac disease. A true wheat allergy is the result of an intolerance to certain proteins found in wheat. Many foods contain wheat or wheat products. Celiac disease is different as it is caused by a sensitivity to gluten, found in wheat, oat, rye and barley, explains KidsHealth.org, a website produced by The Nemours Foundation. Symptoms of wheat allergy in toddlers resemble any other food allergy.
Oral Allergy Syndrome
The type and severity of allergy signs vary depending on the allergen and the amount a toddler may have consumed. A toddler may develop an itchy mouth and throat after swallowing wheat or wheat-containing products, suggests KidsHealth.org. This may be the only symptom of food allergy. It is called oral allergy syndrome.
Skin Symptoms
Several minutes or even hours after exposure to the wheat a toddler may develop visible changes to the skin. This can include a red, itchy rash. Hives are characteristic to allergies. Skin hives consist of raised, red, itchy bumps. The rash can occur anywhere but is often found on the trunk. Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Standford points out that these skin signs are referred to as atopic dermatitis and can consist of dry skin. Other skin conditions can include eczema or urticaria (itchy welts or hives).
Allergic Rhinitis
Some toddlers may develop allergic rhinitis. This condition consists of an itchy and runny nose. Consuming and even inhaling food allergens can trigger the nasal symptoms, depending on the severity of the toddler's sensitivity. Sneezing, nasal stuffiness or itching in the ears can accompany allergic rhinitis.
Digestive Symptoms
Several hours after eating wheat products a toddler may develop digestive symptoms. This can include nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. The body produces these symptoms to get rid of the food allergen. Some abdominal cramping can accompany such digestive symptoms.
Severe Symptoms
Toddlers with the most severe form of wheat allergy can develop what is called anaphylaxis. Anaphylactic shock consists of trouble breathing, chest pain, wheezing and even respiratory arrest. This is a very serious sign of allergy and requires emergency medical treatment. Asthma can occur when a toddler becomes short of breath or coughs when trying to breathe normally.
