When you have a wheat allergy and you eat wheat, your body reacts as if the wheat is trying to cause harm. It fights back by setting off an allergic reaction. A mild reaction may include a few raised, red, itchy patches of skin (called hives). A severe reaction may cause hives all over, swelling in the throat, trouble breathing, nausea or vomiting, or fainting. This is called anaphylaxis (say "ANN-uh-fuh-LAK-suss"). It can be deadly.
Having a wheat allergy is not the same as having celiac disease or eating a gluten-free diet.
A good way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid the foods that cause it. Besides wheat breads, cereals, and pasta, wheat might be found in processed meats and sauces. An allergy doctor or a dietitian may be able to help you understand which foods might be okay and what to avoid. Learn what to do if you have a reaction.