8 Major Celiac Disease Symptoms and Complete Overview

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OVERVIEW

Celiac disease is an immune disorder triggered by eating gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

Rice and corn (maize) are gluten free. Oats don't naturally contain gluten but are often contaminated, so only gluten-free labeled oats are an option, and only if your doctor or dietitian agrees.

In celiac disease, dietary gluten triggers an immune reaction that inflames and damages the lining of the small intestine, especially the upper part (duodenum). This can cause digestive symptoms and nutritional deficiencies.

Celiac disease is a lifelong condition that runs in families. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as osteoporosis, anemia and, rarely, certain cancers. About 1 percent of people worldwide have it, according to the NIDDK celiac disease facts page.

Celiac Disease Symptoms

There are various symptoms of celiac disease. Some of which are given below.

1- Diarrhea:

Diarrhea is one of the most common celiac disease symptoms, especially in children. Stools may be loose, pale, bulky or foul-smelling.

Many people have diarrhea for a long time before they are diagnosed. The main treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. Antibiotics are not a treatment for celiac disease.

Once gluten is removed, many people notice their symptoms improve within days to weeks.

2- GAS:

Excess gas is a common symptom in people with untreated celiac disease. It happens when gluten keeps damaging the intestine and food isn't absorbed well.

Gas is also very common in other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance and swallowing air. A doctor should test for celiac disease rather than assume it is the cause.

3- Bloating:

Bloating is one of the major symptoms of celiac disease. The immune reaction to gluten inflames and damages the lining of the small intestine.

Bloating often improves once gluten is removed from the diet. Because it also happens with irritable bowel syndrome and other gut conditions, proper testing matters.

4- Chronic Fatigue:

Fatigue is one of the most common celiac disease symptoms, especially in adults. Iron deficiency anemia and other nutritional deficiencies are frequent reasons why celiac disease and it causes tiredness.

Poor sleep can add to the problem. Anyone with ongoing fatigue, chest pain or shortness of breath should see a doctor, since these can have many causes.

5- Significant Weight Loss:

Unexplained weight loss is a common celiac disease symptom. The damaged intestine can't absorb nutrients properly, so the body gets fewer calories than it needs.

After starting a gluten-free diet, most people regain weight as the intestine heals. Not everyone with celiac disease is underweight, though; many people are a normal weight or overweight.

6- Iron Deficiency Anemia:

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the major signs of celiac disease. Iron is absorbed in the upper small intestine, the part most affected by the disease.

Symptoms of anemia include paleness, dizziness, fatigue, headache, a racing heart and shortness of breath. Anemia has many other causes, such as heavy periods, stomach ulcers, a low-iron diet and aspirin use, so your doctor will look for the cause.

7- Constipation:

Some people with celiac disease have diarrhea, while others have constipation. Hard stools and straining can cause small tears (anal fissures) that bleed.

A gluten-free diet can also be low in fiber, which may add to constipation. Gluten-free whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables can help. Blood in the stool should always be checked by a doctor.

8- Rash of Celiac Disease:

Some people with celiac disease develop an itchy, blistering rash called dermatitis herpetiformis. It is a skin form of celiac disease and can be the only sign that a person has it.

The rash usually appears on the elbows, knees, buttocks, back or scalp. It affects about 10 to 20 percent of adults with untreated celiac disease.

The Celiac Disease Rash can look like eczema, psoriasis, hives or scabies, so a skin biopsy is often needed to confirm it.

CONCLUSION

Celiac disease is a chronic, autoimmune disease, which means the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. It should be treated as soon as it is diagnosed.

Delaying treatment can prolong symptoms and further damage the Small intestinal mucosa. Untreated celiac disease can lead to weight loss, depression, chronic fatigue and iron deficiency anemia.

Don't stop eating gluten before you're tested, because it can make the tests inaccurate. See a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.