Symptoms of a Wheat Allergy

The Mayo Clinic claims that a wheat allergy is the most common allergy in kids. Wheat allergies can be annoying but are easily prevented and treated. With the right knowledge and information, a person can identify the symptoms of a wheat allergy.

• Wheat allergies are easily prevented and treated.

Definition

• A wheat allergy "is an abnormal immune system reaction to one or more proteins found in wheat," according to the Mayo Clinic.

Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of a wheat allergy are hives, watery eyes, sinus congestion, swelling of the lips or mouth, diarrhea, nausea and shortness of breath.

Time Frame

• The symptoms of a wheat allergy will appear within the first five minutes of eating wheat. The symptoms themselves can last for two to six hours depending on the severity of the allergy.

Treatment

• Typical treatment of the symptoms of a wheat allergy is taking an over-the-counter antihistamine. The most common antihistamine is diphenhydramine, or more commonly known as Benadryl.

Severe Symptoms

• An individual who is severely allergic to wheat can experience anaphylactic shock. Symptoms of an anaphylactic shock reaction will include shortness of breath, blackouts, fainting spells and severe sweating. If anaphylactic shock is not treated, it can lead to death.