Wheat allergy (WA)

Symptoms of wheat allergy: Recognize signs and reactions

Wheat allergy presents with a broad spectrum of symptoms that can affect multiple organ systems. In IgE-mediated cases, symptoms typically appear within two hours of wheat ingestion and may range from mild skin reactions to severe anaphylaxis. The severity and presentation are influenced by age and the underlying immune mechanism.

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, diarrhea
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, diarrhea)
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, diarrhea

Adulthood

WDEIA (wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis):

Trigger-associated form of wheat allergy
Triggered by a combination of wheat consumption and augmentation factors
Augmenting factors include: medication, physical exertion, hormonal fluctuations, alcohol, psychological stress, stress, lack of sleep
Leads to severe systemic reactions, especially 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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