Scalp Problems From A Wheat Allergy

Scalp itching may be related to a wheat allergy.

Image Credit: VladimirFLoyd/iStock/Getty Images When you think about wheat allergy symptoms, your scalp probably doesn’t come to mind. However, because a wheat allergy causes an immune system reaction, you can develop eczema, psoriasis, general scalp itching or hives after consuming products that contain wheat. Not all scalp problems are the result of an allergic reaction and need to be evaluated by your doctor. If you have a wheat allergy, the most effective treatment for scalp problems is to avoid all foods that contain wheat.

  Advertisement
 
Cause

The cause of all scalp problems from a wheat allergy is related to the chemical reaction that occurs during an allergy. A wheat allergy is the result of a hypersensitivity of the immune system to one or more proteins found in wheat, such as gluten. When you ingest these proteins, your immune system reacts to them as if they are harmful. The body attacks the wheat proteins as if they were invaders. The immune system creates immunoglobulin E antibodies that trigger histamine and other chemicals in your body. These chemicals cause inflammation in your skin and other soft tissues.

  Advertisement
 
  Video of the Day
  
Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that commonly occurs in the scalp. It is a skin disease that has a direct affect on the cycle of skin cells, causing them to build more quickly on the surface of the skin than usual. The exact cause of the skin condition is unclear, but most medical professionals associate the condition with an immune system reaction. If you notice that when you consume wheat products, your scalp develops scales that are dry, itchy and painful, you may have psoriasis resulting from a wheat allergy.

  Advertisement
 
Other Skin Reactions

Because skin conditions that occur in your scalp are difficult to see, you need to have your scalp assessed by a dermatologist. Other common skin reactions that may occur from a wheat allergy in your scalp include hives and eczema. Hives are clusters of welts that develop in various shapes and sizes. They are very itchy and can migrate from your scalp to other parts of your body. If you have eczema, consuming wheat products with a wheat allergy can trigger the formation of blisters on your scalp and other parts of your body.

  Advertisement
 
  Advertisement
 
Consideration

A wheat allergy is commonly confused with celiac disease, which is an autoimmune reaction to gluten. If your scalp problems persists or you notice blood on your scalp, call your doctor.

  Advertisement
 
  Advertisement
  
  references
  
      Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network: Wheat Allergy
    
      Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Wheat Allergy
    
      American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Allergic Skin Conditions
     Is this an emergency?
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the
National Library of Medicine’s list
of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.





  references
  
      Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network: Wheat Allergy
    
      Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Wheat Allergy
    
      American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Allergic Skin Conditions

Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.

Scalp itching may be related to a wheat allergy.

Image Credit: VladimirFLoyd/iStock/Getty Images

Image Credit: VladimirFLoyd/iStock/Getty Images

      Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network: Wheat Allergy
    
      Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Wheat Allergy
    
      American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Allergic Skin Conditions