Definition:
Wheat is identified as one of the most common allergy-causing foods that mostly affect children. The allergic reactions typically occurs a few minutes after eating the food products that contains wheat, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe and possibly life-threatening reactions.
Diagnosis:
Physical examination is one of the primary diagnoses for wheat allergy. It is highly important to identify the source of the allergy to ensure that patient will avoid eating food products he/she is allergic to. A skin test may also be conducted.
Treatment:
General avoidance to wheat products is the primary treatment for wheat allergy. It would also help to always prepare anti-allergy medications such as antihistamines for emergencies.
Symptoms and Signs:
Signs of wheat allergy may include swelling, irritation or extreme itching of the throat and mouth. It can also include hives as well as skin irritation, airway inflammation, gastrointestinal symptoms and nasal congestion. In severe cases, there is also the threat of anaphylaxis, where the patient experience difficulty in breathing and requires immediate medical attention. Constriction of the airways, rapid pulse and shock are among the symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Causes:
All known food allergies is caused by a malfunction of the body's immune system, as it identified certain food products are threats to the body. This triggers the allergic reaction and the production of antibodies that signals the body to release histamines and other chemicals to fight allergy.
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