What is a Wheat Allergy ?

A wheat allergy is one of the most common types of food allergies. Your immune system overreacts to wheat you’ve ingested (eaten or drunk) or inhaled (breathed in). For many people, ingesting wheat is harmless.

How to diagnose wheat allergy ? 

If you have a family history of allergies or experience mild wheat allergy symptoms, it's important to visit an allergist for a proper diagnosis. The allergist may recommend the following tests to confirm a wheat allergy:

• Skin Test: This involves exposing the skin on the arm or back to drops of purified wheat proteins. 
• Food Challenge Test: Conducted under strict medical supervision.
• IgE Blood Test: If a skin test isn't feasible due to skin conditions or medication conflicts, an IgE blood test may be used.

What are the symptoms of wheat Allergy ?

The symptoms of a wheat allergy can manifest within minutes of consuming wheat or after a few hours or days in these forms. 

• Respiratory symptoms: Asthma, respiratory distress, wheezing, inflammation of nasal passages 
• Neurological symptoms: Dizziness, Headaches, confusion, blurred vision, and seizures 
• Digestive symptoms: Bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting 

How To Manage Wheat Allergy ?

Avoid Wheat:

• Eliminate Wheat: Completely remove wheat and wheat-containing products from your diet.
• Read Labels: Check ingredient lists for wheat or wheat derivatives in packaged foods.

Avoid Cross-Contamination:

• Kitchen Safety: Use separate utensils, cookware, and surfaces to avoid contact with wheat.
• Dining Out: Inform restaurant staff about your wheat allergy and ask about cross-contamination practices. 

Educate Yourself and Others:

• Understand Symptoms: Recognize the symptoms of a wheat allergy, such as hives, itching, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Inform Others: Make sure family, friends, and caregivers are aware of your allergy and how to respond.

Consult with a Dietitian:

• Nutritional Guidance: Work with a dietitian to ensure a balanced diet and proper nutrition while avoiding wheat.

How To Treat Wheat Allergy ?

Antihistamines:

• Mild Reactions: Use over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve symptoms like itching and hives.

Epinephrine:

• Severe Reactions: Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) if prescribed, and use it during severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.

Immunotherapy:

• Allergy Shots: Consult an allergist about the possibility of allergen immunotherapy (though this is not commonly used for wheat allergies).

Conclusion
In conclusion, effectively managing and treating a wheat allergy involves a comprehensive approach. By strictly avoiding wheat and wheat-containing products, reading labels carefully, and using safe substitutes, individuals can minimize the risk of allergic reactions.