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Woman in Osaka suffered fatal wheat allergy reaction after eating sandwich

Ada Cheng Suet-ngan experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction in Osaka, Japan, after eating a sandwich at a 7-Eleven store in 2019.

What living with a severe wheat allergy is like, and how a brisk walk can make it fatal
File photo What living with a severe wheat allergy is like, and how a brisk walk can make it fatal Photo: South China Morning Post

Initial symptoms appeared quickly

Cheng felt itchy and sweaty moments after grabbing the quick bite before her train ride. She noticed rashes forming over her arm and neck despite the winter weather. The severity of the reaction forced her to sit down and drink water to calm herself.

Emergency response followed immediately

Cheng asked station staff to call emergency services because she knew an English speaker was needed. She laid on the floor of the train station as she felt dizzy and about to pass out. Paramedics arrived and transported her to an emergency ward where she lost consciousness again.

Condition linked to wheat

Medical professionals later identified the condition as a severe allergy linked specifically to wheat consumption. Cheng is now in her 40s and uses this experience to raise awareness about food allergies. Her story highlights how a brisk walk or physical exertion can sometimes trigger fatal outcomes for those with such conditions.

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