For those who are gluten sensitive, steering clear from certain foods is essential. Some individuals are aware of what they can and can’t eat. Others are completely oblivious to the fact that they’re gluten sensitive. Going through the after effects of tough meals that contain the substance, they suffer through a wide variety of symptoms that leave them feeling less than their best.
Gluten is a mixture of two proteins that’s primarily in wheat and dough. When it comes to eating substances that may contain gluten, it’s good to know if someone has a sensitivity to it. That means knowing what gluten allergy symptoms look like and what to do about them.
What are gluten allergy symptoms?
Individuals who suffer from a gluten allergy have many symptoms that affect them in a negative way. Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the person and the type of gluten sensitivity they have.
Those with first-time gluten allergy symptoms may experience nausea after a meal containing gluten. It can persist throughout the day as well. Some experience diarrhea and constipation. They may alternate between these two states. Abdominal cramping can become an issue along with bloating after eating a meal. A person may experience joint pain in their elbows, knees, wrists or hands.
Those who are sensitive to wheat may experience weight loss unexpectedly. They may become extremely tired after eating a meal. Having contact with gluten may trigger migraine headaches. Feeling numb in one’s hands, legs or arms unexpectedly may be another sign someone is allergic to gluten. Some complain of difficulty concentrating on complex tasks. Skin changes can occur in some individuals. Bumps and blisters may form on their back, elbows, scalp and knees.
How will a gluten allergy be confirmed?
There is no specific gluten sensitivity test that diagnoses one with a gluten allergy at this time. However, gluten allergies are found by comparing one’s symptoms to clinical standards. A gluten exposure test may also be used to confirm gluten allergies.
When it comes to finding out if an individual has a gluten allergy, there are generally exams and evaluations done to distinguish the symptoms and diagnose accordingly. If one is thought to have a wheat allergy, a skin prick test, Wheat Specific Serum IgE and gluten challenge will be suggested. If these tests are positive, a wheat allergy will be confirmed.
If one is thought to have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, they will mostly likely have a tTG-IgA test and a deamidated AGA test done. If these tests are done and come out negative, a gluten challenge will be done. If that turns out positive, a gluten sensitivity will be confirmed.
First-time gluten allergy symptoms should not be taken lightly. Those who feel they are experiencing these symptoms should consult their physician as soon as possible.
Asthma and Allergy Associates Food Allergy Center, staffed by our physicians and a registered dietitian/nutritionist, can help with gluten or other food sensitivities. For more information or to make an appointment call us at 719-473-0872 or 800-533-3900