Understanding Gluten Allergy and its Symptoms with Dr. Wade Wei Han

The term ‘gluten allergy’ is used to define ‘gluten intolerance’. Gluten is a kind of protein found abundantly in grains such as wheat. The allergy to gluten is precisely a kind of gastrointestinal reaction of body to gluten.

There are many symptoms that suggest intolerance or allergy of gluten. According to Dr. Wade Wei Han, these symptoms vary from one person to another. Hence, it is not easy to diagnose the allergy. Here is a list of some of the gastrointestinal symptoms of allergy from gluten:

• Gas
• Pain in abdominal region
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

The above listed symptoms may often lead to other problems such as abnormal weight loss, inability of body to consume nutrients, weak memory, excess weakness, chronic fatigue, problems with concentrating etc.

For gastrointestinal symptoms, the Dr. Han recommends patients to test for celiac disease. This is initiated with celiac blood tests. For positive results, the health care practitioner will prescribe an endoscopy. This is a kind of procedure that allows a doctor to have a look straight at the small intestine. The doctor can even take samples to conduct necessary laboratory test.

In negative celiac blood test result, the medical practitioner will consider a possibility of non-celiac sensitivity to gluten or some other health condition such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Wheat allergy can be diagnosed with skin prick tests. Blood tests may also be recommended by doctors to check antibodies.

Apart from gastrointestinal symptoms, one may show other symptoms for gluten intolerance such as joint pain, skin irritation, muscle cramps, seizures, headaches, and neurological problems such as numbness, tingling in hands or feet etc.

Wade Wei Han MD feels that if left undiagnosed or untreated for a long time, gluten allergy may ultimately lead to problems such as diabetes, anemia, osteoporosis, bowel cancer, etc. Hence, it is better to speak to a doctor if you observe gluten allergy symptoms.

To know more on food allergy, read - All about Food Allergy by Dr. Wade Wei Han