Wheat allergies can be serious. It commonly affects children under 3 years of age but may also occur in adults. The allergy usually resolves by the time the child turns 5.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

Wheat is one of the most important food sources for many European and American countries. Baked goods and pasta are usually prepared with wheat flour, as well as cereals, nougat, sausage, meatloaf, sauces, dressings, and beer.

The immune system of people who have wheat allergy has been previously sensitized to one or more out of the four major proteins found in  wheat like prolamin, glutelin, albumin, and globulin. They have developed specific IgE antibodies against these allergenic components causing symptoms like:

• eczema
• flushing
• angioedema
• coughing
• wheezing
• difficulty of breathing
• watery eyes and runny nose
• abdominal bloating
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• throat swelling
• chest tightness
• chest pain

The mechanisms of wheat allergy and Celiac disease are different. The types of antibodies produced by the immune system are distinct for these two separate conditions, as well as the target organs and their symptoms.

What your Doctor can do for you

20% of children who are allergic to wheat are also allergic to other types of grains. So, it’s better to seek professional help before doing anything that might harm a person. A food diary and a clinical history are crucial to make a diagnosis of wheat allergy rather than other diseases. The doctor may also order an elimination diet whereby wheat will be inhibited from the diet and the person is observed for a certain period, and present the food again while observing the reactions. Skin prick tests and blood tests are performed for confirmatory purposes. Antihistamines are taken immediately after consuming any wheat product to prevent further symptoms. Epinephrine (adrenaline) is given to combat serious reactions.

What you can do

Currently, there is no definite treatment for wheat allergy. Avoidance of the culprit is the best measure to save your life.

• Once diagnosed, inform your family and significant others of your condition. Involve your family in the preparation of a wheat-free diet. The parent of the child having wheat allergy should also inform school authorities and the school clinic for them to be prepared of any conditions arising from the child.
• If you are at risk for anaphylaxis, ask your Doctor regarding the use of Medic Alert bracelets.
• There are a wide array of wheat-free cereals, flour, and products in the market. SBut since a person may also develop sensitivity to other grains; always consult your Doctor regarding wheat substitutes.
• Read the labels. Food packaging should indicate that they contain wheat.
• When eating out, always ask whether the restaurant serves meals that do not contain wheat. Asian restaurants usually skip wheat from the menu—but it really pays to ask first.