Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed that gluten-free items have taken over prime real estate on the shelves at every American grocery store. And while some people dabble in gluten-free cuisine as a fad, for the 3 million US citizens living with celiac disease – gluten is the enemy. Targeting those who are genetically predisposed to it, this debilitating autoimmune disease ultimately leads to the malabsorption of nutrients. When wheat products are consumed, nutrient-absorbing villi that typically thrive in the small intestine, are attacked by gliadin – a protein that’s naturally occurring in wheat. Essentially, a loaf of bread can end up being your arch enemy, leaving behind osteoporosis and anemia in its wake.
Silent, but Deadly
Many people have what is known as asymptomatic celiac disease – meaning that there are no outward signs of a problem. Because villous atrophy (intestinal damage) is still occurring, it’s best to take preventive measures and abstain from eating gluten. It can lead to some nasty long-term issues; among them infertility, osteoporosis, cancer, and in children – delayed growth. This leads to our next symptom…
Nothing to Kid About
Typically, physicians perform regular check-ups to determine if your child is growing at a normal pace. Should they notice that their growth has been stunted, or that they are unable to put on weight – there could be a myriad of reasons. One possibility is the development of celiac disease. This “atypical” symptom” can also present itself in older kids and teenagers as delayed puberty.
Bursting Your Bubble
Are you perpetually bloated? People joke about having “food babies”, a cheeky term for distention after a big meal. All laughter aside – pasta, pizza, and bread may be the culprit. If they leave you feeling extreme abdominal pressure, you may be experiencing a hazardous build-up of gas & fluid in the intestines; cramping, discomfort, and nausea can also coincide with this symptom.
Don’t Do Anything Rash
Those with celiac don’t always break out in rashes; however, in some cases dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) will appear. Because this rash can be caused by gluten intolerance, it’s recommended to check with your GI doc if you’re suffering from extremely itchy rashes that just won’t go away.
Iron Out the Details
If you’re anemic, or aren’t getting enough iron – your body may not be absorbing the mineral due to celiac-related intestinal limitations. Often dismissed as a side effect of menstrual cycles (in women), iron deficiency can be a helpful hint that something more ominous is afoot. One-third of those with celiac are also anemic. Are you taking supplements, but still showing low levels of iron? Seek the help of your GI professional.
A Sad State
Are you feeling blue? Amino acids, the important building blocks obtained from food, are vital for maintaining healthy brain functioning. However, a normal intestine is needed to break them down. Those experiencing celiac disease often have ruptured tissue in the intestine, which can allow valuable nutrients to break through into the blood. Depression and anxiety can ensue.
Another Bathroom Break?
If you’re running to the bathroom constantly with diarrhea, this may be an early indicator of celiac disease. According to HealthLine®, Loose stools are one of the most commonly reported symptoms of this disorder.
You Snooze, You Lose
If you’re feeling constant fatigue, or aren’t getting the shut eye you used to, don’t sleep on it! In a study done by The National Institutes of Health, it was reported that those with CD tend to experience inadequate sleep cycles. You may be shocked to discover that gluten intolerance is keeping you from counting sheep.
Losing Lots of lbs.
A dramatic and swift drop in weight can mean that your system isn’t processing vitamins & minerals as it should. While there are many reasons for a patient’s weight loss, a frail figure combined with the aforementioned symptoms could be indicative of gluten intolerance.
It’s a No-Go
Chronic constipation often coincides with CD; this is because a damaged small intestine tends to soak up a large percentage of the water in the stool. This leaves the affected person with difficulty emptying their bowels.
If you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, you may want to heed the advice of your gastroenterologist. The specialists at Austin Gastroenterology are dedicated to their clinic research – making it their business to stay at the forefront of their industry. With new research always taking place, there are more and more potential connections and treatments being discovered that can help understand and treat celiac disease. You don’t have to stomach the effects of Celiac Disease anymore; request an appointment online, or contact the office closest to you.
1Celiac.com
2Verywell.com
3Celiac.org
4BeyondCeliac.org
5Prevention.com
6HealthLine.com
