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Wheat Allergy in Children

Wheat allergy in children is one of the most common food allergies. It usually develops during the infant and toddler years. By knowing the facts about wheat allergies and learning ways to prevent wheat consumption, parents can avoid a life-threatening allergic reaction.

  1. Features

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, a wheat allergy is an adverse immune system reaction to the proteins found in wheat. During an allergic reaction, antibodies in the body react to and attack the wheat protein thinking it is a virus.

    Identification

    • Two main risk factors of wheat allergy in children are family history and age. Wheat allergies tend to develop in infants and toddlers with underdeveloped immune and digestive systems.

    Effects

    • According to Allergy Child.com, symptoms of wheat allergy in children are hives, difficulty breathing, nausea, diarrhea, swelling, itchy eyes and anaphylaxis (closure of the throat).

    Considerations

    • Knowing the difference between wheat allergy and wheat intolerance is life saving. Children with a wheat allergy must avoid all products that contain wheat, but they tend to outgrow the allergy. Children with wheat intolerance have an adverse reaction after eating anything that contains gluten, and they tend to require a gluten-free diet for their lifetime.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Preventing an allergic reaction is key. A parent of a child with a wheat allergy must learn to read all labels to see if the product contains wheat. This includes food, beverages and some vitamins.

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