Wheat allergy refers to the unwanted reactions caused as a result of interactions of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to one or more proteins found in wheat. These proteins that are the root cause of this allergy can be grouped into four. These are albumin, globulin, prolamin (notably gliadin), glutelin (protein involved in the synthesis of gluten). The most common of the wheat allergies subjected to humans are caused by reactions acting upon the proteins albumin and globulin. Allergic reactions to gliadin and gluten are rather rare.
Food allergy is an abnormal response to the food that is triggered by a specific reaction in the immune system and characterized by certain specific symptoms. Wheat allergy in children gives rise to minor to major symptoms of allergy that may occur quickly and show up immediately or on the other hand may not present for hours after the consumption of wheat or wheat products. Sometimes the allergy symptoms can just appear anywhere in between. It is very rare that the wheat allergies in children might have life threatening consequences in the form of allergic reactions like anaphylactic shock. In most other cases, the reactions are not very severe.
Following are the symptoms of wheat allergy in children:
- Swollen tongue or lips
- Red rashes on the skin that will itch or burn
- Swollen throat also experiencing irritation
- Sinus/nasal congestion
- Itchy eyes
- Running nose
- Constant sneezing
- Inflammation of the airways
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Urticaria or hives
- Asthma
Studies have shown that unless the wheat is in the form of a cereal or in its seed form the chances of contracting these allergic reactions are high. The allergy may be caused when the person comes in direct contact with wheat grains while plucking the crop or while inhaling particles suspended in the air that is exposed to areas where continuous processing of wheat flour occurs. Most of the time the allergies are encountered due to the ingestion of wheat and wheat products.
In cases of severe and dangerous reactions an immediate seeking of doctor’s help is advised. Parents must take care that wheat is completely eliminated from the child’s diet. You must avoid foods that contain oats, rye or barley that contains gluten just like wheat does. Children may show similar allergic reactions to these products as well. Certain readily available soups, gravies or sauces may contain parts of wheat included in them for thickening purposes. These must be compulsorily avoided. Apart from these, you must also stay away from beers and root beers that contain wheat products. However, there are many vitamins, carbohydrates, minerals like zinc and magnesium and fiber present in wheat that your child is devoid of. You must find ways to substitute these nutrients with other products in your child’s diet for healthy living.
