How does crested wheatgrass allergy differ from wheat allergy?

Crested wheatgrass allergy and wheat allergy are two different, but potentially confusing conditions due to their similar names. However, their differences lie in the types of allergens they involve.

A wheat allergy involves a reaction to the proteins found in wheat. When an individual with a wheat allergy ingests or inhales wheat proteins, their immune system reacts as if these proteins are harmful, releasing histamines that lead to allergy symptoms. These can range from mild (hives, itching, swelling) to severe (anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that includes difficulty breathing and lowered blood pressure). Furthermore, wheat allergies are often related to food consumption and can affect the digestive system extensively.

On the other hand, a crested wheatgrass allergy, as with most grass allergies, is typically linked to the pollens produced by the plants. This means that for the majority of the year when the plant is not producing pollen, individuals with this allergy are unaffected. However, during the flowering season, individuals with a crested wheatgrass allergy may experience symptoms similar to hay fever, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and potentially asthmatic symptoms.

In terms of treatment, both allergies may be managed through avoidance of triggers, use of over-the-counter antihistamines, and in severe cases, prescription medications. Immunotherapy could also be a viable treatment option for both, where small, increasing amounts of the allergen are introduced into the body to build immunity. However, while wheat substitutes are easily available for those with a wheat allergy, avoiding pollen in the air during the flowering season of crested wheatgrass may be more challenging.

Therefore, while these two allergies might seem similar due to their names, their allergens, symptom profiles, and potentially the management approach differ considerably. Hence it's vital to get a proper diagnosis from an allergy specialist for the most effective management strategy.