An allergy is the body’s natural reaction to elements it considers toxic. It may be triggered by the proteins found in certain foods and drugs. Wheat has always been known to cause allergic reactions in some people. If your child develops any of the symptoms mentioned below after eating cookies or other wheat based foodstuffs, it may be time to visit the doctor.
Nasal congestion
It can be quite tricky to pinpoint the cause of your child’s nasal congestion. This is because it is commonly associated with the flu virus. However, there may be more to it than meets the eye. If this symptom crops up shortly after consuming wheat, chances are it may be an allergic reaction. Those who suffer from wheat allergy have always been known to develop flu like symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, stuffy nose, watery eyes and itching on the eyes and palate.
Diarrhea
Frequent uncontrolled trips to the washroom may also indicate the presence of this allergy in your child’s body. In this case, the stool may be loose and watery. You should take your child to the hospital if the symptoms persist. The doctor may run tests, based on blood samples, to determine the exact cause of the stomach upset. While diarrhea is usually associated with bacterial infections, it is one of the classic symptoms of wheat allergy.
Vomiting
Whenever you vomit, it is a sign that your body is rejecting the food you just consumed. Most allergies are known to trigger the feeling of being nauseated. Take note of the times your kid vomits. If it only happens after eating products rich in wheat, take action immediately. If left untreated, an allergic reaction can degenerate into a life threatening condition.
Mouth and throat irritation and swelling
If your kid’s mouth or throat appears to be inflamed, it may be as a result of the body fighting off pathogens. Ask him whether he feels any form of irritation in any of these areas. If the child is too young to talk, probe the areas gently and take note of his reaction.
Skin rashes
While a skin rash may only appear when it’s cold, it can also point to an allergy. Rashes associated with wheat allergies are usually itchy. Furthermore, they cause the affected area to turn red in color. Always avoid any form of scratching as it may only worsen the condition.
Difficulty in breathing
An affected child may also find it difficult to breathe. If the child doesn’t have a history of ailments that cause breathing complications, asthma being a prime candidate, schedule a checkup with your family doctor.
Other symptoms
Other commonly reported symptoms include bloating and a severe breathing complication referred to as anaphylaxis. While the rest of the signs are mild, anaphylaxis can be life threatening. When a patient suffers severe difficulty in breathing in your presence, it is always advisable to contact paramedics immediately.
To be on the safe side, ensure your kid is free of all wheat based products once diagnosed. Furthermore, schedule regular appointments with your doctor to monitor the child’s progress. With the right lifestyle choices, this is a condition that can be easily managed.
