Helpline
Danielle 's Story
When Danielle started feeling unwell, she was at first diagnosed with two health conditions – but the problems continued. A review, some years later, pinpointed an omega 5 gliadin allergy.
This is a protein component of wheat gluten and the cause of wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (WDEIA).
Danielle says: “I started getting hives occasionally many years ago and, although I found it strange, I didn’t think it was important. But by 2015, the reactions had developed to significant hives, facial swelling and feeling poorly and I was referred to an Immunology clinic. The diagnosis was chronic urticaria and angioedema. I began medications but the reactions didn’t stop and, in fact, got progressively getting worse.
I had my son in 2020, under consultant care throughout my pregnancy and, when my son was just four weeks old, I had my worst reaction yet and could feel myself blacking out, panicking and struggling to breathe.
I felt terrified that I had a tiny son to take care of but could have a reaction at any stage and potentially pass out.
Thankfully at a clinic appointment some months later I was referred for more tests, and the diagnosis was an omega 5 gliadin allergy. I was referred to a dietitian, told to cut out all wheat/gluten and prescribed Epi-Pens. My care plan makes the risk of anaphylaxis clear. I don’t have urticaria or angioedema.
I have changed my diet, and I have had only three minor reactions since I made these changes. I am medication-free but carry my Epi-Pens everywhere.
I still deal with a lot of food anxiety, but this is a world away from my early experiences - at one point I told my husband I would give all the money we had to find an answer to my problems.”