Wheat allergy

Symptoms of wheat allergy: Recognising signs and reactions

Wheat allergy has a wide range of symptoms affecting various organ systems. In the IgE-mediated form in particular, symptoms usually occur within two hours of wheat consumption – ranging from skin reactions to anaphylaxis. Age and immune mechanism influence the severity.

Symptoms of IgE-mediated wheat allergy: possible reactions

IgE-mediated wheat allergy is a form of immediate-type allergy in which symptoms typically occur within two hours of wheat consumption. The clinical manifestations can affect various organ systems and range from mild symptoms to severe systemic reactions such as anaphylaxis.

Skin: urticaria (hives), angioedema, eczema, swelling, itching
Respiratory tract: rhinitis, erythema, wheezing, asthma, scratchy throat, stuffy nose
Gastrointestinal: oral allergy syndrome, vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea
Cardiovascular system: anaphylaxis (potentially life-threatening)
Atopic dermatitis (in children)

Age-dependent manifestations of wheat allergy

Infancy and early childhood

IgE-mediated immediate reactions:

Skin (e.g. urticaria)
Respiratory tract (e.g. wheezing)
Gastrointestinal tract (e.g. vomiting, diarrhoea)
Cardiovascular system (e.g. hypotension)

Late reactions:

Worsening of atopic dermatitis

Non-IgE-mediated reactions - FPIES (food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome):

Severe gastrointestinal reactions
Occurring several hours after wheat consumption
Symptoms: vomiting, lethargy, diarrhoea

Adult

WDEIA (wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis):

Trigger-associated form of wheat allergy
Triggered by a combination of wheat consumption and augmentation factors
Leads to severe systemic reactions, in particular anaphylaxis

Severe wheat allergies: link to cardiovascular symptoms

Current studies show that severe allergic reactions to wheat — especially anaphylactic shock — are often accompanied by cardiovascular symptoms in adults. In most cases, two additional organ systems are affected. Skin reactions and cardiovascular complaints are particularly common, followed by respiratory symptoms

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