Wheat allergy – more than just wheat intolerance

Wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (WDEIA)

WDEIA (wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis) is a special form of wheat allergy in which allergic reactions only occur when wheat consumption coincides with certain aggravating cofactors. These include physical exertion, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), alcohol, stress, infections, temperature fluctuations, the menstrual cycle or a combination of these factors.

Symptoms range from skin rashes such as urticaria or angioedema to severe anaphylactic reactions. These usually occur suddenly, especially if wheat has been consumed within a time window of about four hours before or after the influence of a cofactor. In individual cases, this time window may also be longer.

Physical exertion is considered the most common trigger, followed by medications such as NSAIDs and alcohol consumption. What is particularly dangerous is that the reaction threshold can be significantly lowered by the interaction of several cofactors - even small amounts of wheat can then trigger a severe allergic reaction.

WDEIA is an IgE-mediated food allergy and should not be confused with other forms of wheat intolerance.

Baker's asthma

Baker's asthma is a special form of wheat allergy triggered by inhaling flour dust and other cereal components. It is one of the most common forms of occupational asthma, especially in people who regularly work with wheat flour, cereal flour or baking additives, such as in bakeries, pastry shops or food production.

The condition is a respiratory form of wheat allergy and is characterised by allergic inflammation of the airways. Typical symptoms include coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing and, in severe cases, even suffocation. These symptoms usually occur during or shortly after work and may also worsen outside working hours.