[Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis]

Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis is a relatively uncommon variation of food-allergy. In conjunction with exercise, many foods - particularly wheat - can induce erythema, generalized urticaria, angioedema, asthma and upper airway obstruction. In more severe cases hypotension and shock occur - in rare cases with fatal outcome. Neither intake of food nor exercise alone will cause anaphylaxis. However, the symptoms can be avoided by the avoidance of the specific food for a period of four hours before exercising. The diagnosis is often established late, probably because of the rare incidence of the condition.