A Gluten intolerance (also sometimes referred to as a Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity) is a non-immune related reaction to gluten.
Gluten is primarily made up of two different types (classes) of proteins 'gliadin' and 'glutenin' found in foods made from grains that contain gluten.
Gluten Intolerance while uncomfortable is a non-immune related reaction, unlike Wheat Allergy or Coeliac disease which is immune related. It does however, share similar symptoms with Coeliac disease, but without the long-term effects and damage to the small intestine.
There are many food products that contain Gluten (scroll below to see the some common products it can be found in).
SYMPTOMS
Some of the symptoms may be characterised by:
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Acne
- Eczema
- Dermatitis
- Numbness
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Pain and Swelling
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Skin Rash
The validity and severity of these symptoms are dependent on the individual and the level of exposure, as determined by a qualified health care provider.
TREATMENT
If you experience, or are in the presence of someone that encounters, an immediate reaction (this may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightening, etc), call or have someone call triple zero (000) immediately.
In the case of immediate symptoms from minor consumption of the intolerant, the following may be used along with other medications based on the individual’s symptoms and prescribed treatments:
- Rest
- Hydration
- DDP Enzymes
- Activated charcoal
- Epsom Salt bath
If larger amounts of the intolerant are consumed, seek medical attention to prevent larger health concerns.
It’s important for anyone with an Intolerance, to discuss treatments with a qualified health care provider to understand how to manage individual intolerances and also to set up an Intolerance Action Plan in the case of symptoms.
Always present your Allergy Card, Medical Alert Bracelet or Necklace to ensure health care providers, family members, friends, colleagues and others are aware of your Allergy or Allergies.
TESTING
A Blood Test or a Biopsy may be used to test for a Gluten Intolerance. In certain circumstances testing for Coeliac Disease may be completed during diagnosis.
LABELLING
Some labels or terms you may come across on Gluten Intolerance friendly products:
"Gluten Free" "Gluten Alternative"
RANDOM FACT
Gluten is the Latin word for 'Glue'.
WHERE YOU MAY COME ACROSS GLUTEN
The below is not a complete list, but just some of the places, you may come across Gluten:
- Cereals
- Beers
- Breads
- Pittas
- Bagels
- Flatbreads
- Cakes
- Pies
- Candies
- Wafers
- Cookies
- Crackers
- Croutons
- Malts
The information provided on Allergy Life Australia is to generally educate and inform you about living with allergies, intolerances and conditions, and is not intended as medical instruction or as a substitute for diagnosis, examination and advice by a qualified health care provider.
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ARE THERE ANY OTHER PRODUCTS WITH GLUTEN YOU HAVE COME ACROSS? HAVE YOU HAD AN EXPERIENCE WITH A GLUTEN INTOLERANCE OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT HAS? LET US KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW
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