10 Common Celiac Disease Symptoms You Should Be Aware Of
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects around 1 in 100 people worldwide. This condition can cause damage to your small intestine when consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. If left untreated, celiac disease can lead to severe health consequences. In this article, we will discuss ten common celiac disease symptoms that you should be aware of.
1. Digestive Issues
The most common symptoms of celiac disease are digestive issues such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. These symptoms occur due to the inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine, which impairs its ability to absorb nutrients properly.
2. Anemia
The chronic inflammation associated with celiac disease can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, a condition that occurs when your body lacks enough iron to produce hemoglobin- a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to your body cells. Anemia can affect energy levels, cause fatigue, and lead to pale skin and shortness of breath.
3. Skin Rash
Celiac disease can cause a skin rash called dermatitis herpetiformis, which appears as red, itchy bumps or blisters that usually occur on elbows, knees, or buttocks. This rash occurs due to an immune system reaction to gluten that occurs in the skin rather than the small intestine.
4. Joint Pain
Joint pain and swelling are relatively common among people with celiac disease. This occurs due to the inflammation that occurs throughout the body as a result of an autoimmune attack on the small intestine lining.
5. Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines are common among people with celiac disease, particularly before a diagnosis. This occurs due to the inflammation that occurs in the body, which can trigger neurological symptoms like headaches.
6. Weight Loss
Unexpected weight loss, particularly in the absence of dieting or exercise, can be a red flag for celiac disease. This occurs due to malabsorption where the small intestine fails to absorb nutrients effectively.
7. Irregular Menstruation
Women with untreated celiac disease may experience irregular periods or fertility issues, such as premature menopause, due to malabsorption of essential nutrients.
8. Depression and Anxiety
Anxiety and depression are common among people with celiac disease, which could be due to the chemical imbalances that occur when the body fails to absorb key nutrients necessary for brain function.
9. Dental Issues
Celiac disease can lead to dental enamel defects, canker sores, and recurrent mouth ulcers due to malabsorption of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and vitamin D.
10. Numbness in Hands and Feet
Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet are common neurological symptoms associated with celiac disease. These occur due to nerve damage caused by vitamin deficiencies.
Final Thoughts
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that impacts multiple body systems, and its symptoms vary significantly across individuals. It’s essential to recognize and diagnose the disease early to avoid further complications. If you suspect you may have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, consult with a healthcare professional to undergo testing and start a gluten-free diet.
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