Telltale Signs

• Some telltale signs of oatmeal allergies include a swollen belly due to gas build up, a small rash across the abdomen, and/or vomiting. Oatmeal contains gluten, a grain-based protein that requires a certain enzyme to break down. Lacking this enzyme is what creates the gas and vomiting. Rashes are typically caused by topical application of oatmeal, but also are possible when ingested. Rashes indicate your child's body has identified oatmeal as a potential threat and is working to eliminate it. Stop applying or feeding oatmeal products to your child immediately and consult a physician.
  
  

Subtle Signs

• A subtle sign of a mild or suppressed oatmeal allergy include stomach discomforts or belly aches after eating oatmeal. Soft stool or excessive "spitting up" also is common. These are usually mild allergies, though they can be painful to the person experiencing them. This reaction may also extend to wheat products, but not always. This kind of reaction may develop as early as 6 to 9 months of age. Again, eliminate oatmeal foods and oatmeal-based formulas if you suspect an allergy to oatmeal. Consult a physician.
  
  

Extreme Signs

• In some cases, oatmeal allergies may be immediate and life-threatening. Swollen throat, tongue or palate can occur. If someone feels dizzy, experiences difficulty breathing, or other severe reactions after eating oatmeal, they are entering anaphylactic shock that must be treated with special medicines immediately. This condition is extremely dangerous and paramedics should be summoned immediately.
  
  

Reaction Intensity

• Initial reactions to oatmeal may be mild at first, such as stomach discomfort or a small rash that goes away after a day or so. Typically, however, these reactions are merely a warning sign that oatmeal may be an allergen for the person involved and the next reaction may be more intense. If a stronger reaction follows, do not wait for a third reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
  
  

Overcoming Reactions

• It is not common for people to overcome oatmeal reactions on their own and may need to keep a special anti-allergy medication on hand. Epinephrine is a strong, injectable drug that can arrest the worst oatmeal symptoms in life-threatening situations, giving the victim time enough to receive medical assistance. Only physicians can prescribe epinephrine and usually only do so for patients who experience severe reactions. Anyone who has experienced a severe (life-threatening) reaction to oatmeal should carry such medication with them when eating out at a restaurant.