10 Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a chronic intestinal condition triggered by a sensitivity to gluten, found in wheat, barley, triticale, oats, and rye. In affected individuals, gluten consumption results in harm to the small intestine, potentially giving rise to a spectrum of additional health issues. Management of celiac disease is currently limited to a rigorous adherence to a gluten-free diet, as this is the only established method to mitigate the adverse reactions associated with the disease. Symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly among patients.

1. Digestive Problems

Individuals diagnosed with Celiac disease commonly encounter a spectrum of digestive issues, attributable to the compromised functionality of the small intestine. Manifestations such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea are typical postprandial complaints, often more chronic and severe compared to ordinary digestive discomforts. It is imperative to acknowledge these symptoms as they are indicative of the body's adverse reaction to gluten consumption in those with Celiac disease.

2. Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps in individuals with Celiac disease can be attributed to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron and calcium. Medical professionals often recognize a correlation between Celiac disease and the occurrence of leg cramps, which tend to intensify during nighttime. These cramps, though typically brief, can cause severe discomfort and are not limited to the legs but can also affect the hands, feet, neck, and shoulders. Stretching exercises have been identified as a potential method to mitigate such episodes.

3. Low Calcium

Calcium insufficiency is a notable repercussion of celiac disease, stemming from gluten's detrimental impact on the nutrient-absorptive functions of the small intestine. Consequently, individuals with celiac disease commonly exhibit reduced bone density, particularly when the condition remains unaddressed. Symptoms indicative of a calcium deficit range from brittle nails and coarse hair to muscle cramps and fatigue. It further extends to more severe health concerns such as osteoporosis, dry skin, dental deterioration, and mood disorders. Additionally, there are instances where calcium shortages correlate with conditions like psoriasis, dysphagia, respiratory difficulties, chest discomfort, syncope, and increased irritability.

4. Low Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining health, particularly for those suffering from celiac disease. This essential vitamin is paramount in mitigating inflammation and intestinal permeability, commonly known as 'leaky gut'. Deficiency symptoms can include a heightened susceptibility to infections, delayed wound healing, mood disturbances such as depression, as well as pervasive fatigue and bodily pain. Additional signs might comprise muscle spasms, joint discomfort, overall weakness, and persistent aches. It may also contribute to restless sleep patterns, unintentional weight fluctuation, and elevated blood pressure levels.

5. Iron Deficiency

Celiac disease often leads to anemia or iron deficiency, which compromises the oxygen supply to red blood cells, impacting their function. The condition can also precipitate further anemia through the intestinal damage it causes. Symptoms of iron deficiency include fatigue, weakness, pallor, headaches, a persistent sensation of coldness particularly in the hands and feet, brittle nails, and potential heart palpitations or a rapid heartbeat.

6. Severe Skin Rash

Dermatitis herpetiformis, commonly referred to as a gluten or celiac rash, is a persistent skin condition associated with gluten sensitivity. This condition is not universally seen in individuals diagnosed with celiac disease; however, it tends to manifest in an estimated 24% of those affected. Characteristically, the rash exhibits a symmetrical pattern on parts of the body such as the elbows, knees, and legs. Men are statistically more likely to be affected than women. The condition is marked by sudden onset of intense itchiness and the presence of blistered skin. Adopting a gluten-free diet has been observed to mitigate the occurrence of exacerbations.

7. Neuropathic Symptoms

Celiac disease has been linked to peripheral neuropathy, which may manifest as a tingling sensation in the legs, feet, and hands. This nerve condition can also cause individuals to experience a variety of sensations, such as a bubbling or burning feeling. Additionally, it may lead to numbness in the extremities and a diminished sense of touch in the face and body. These symptoms are indicative of the underlying effects celiac disease can have on the nervous system.

8. Mouth Sores

Celiac disease can manifest in the oral cavity as mouth sores resembling canker sores. These lesions typically present as small, white blisters on the tongue, the inner cheek, or behind the lips. They result from an immune response that inadvertently damages the intestinal lining and can affect the mouth's soft tissue. The healing process for these sores may be protracted due to the continuous moisture in the mouth and possible irritation from dental contact. In some cases where sores become open, weeping, or bleed, they can significantly impede the ability to eat and drink comfortably.

9. Seizures

Recent clinical studies have identified that individuals with celiac disease may experience seizures varying in duration and intensity. Seizure manifestations in these patients range from brief episodes of staring (known as absence seizures) to muscle twitching, and in more severe cases, to violent convulsions. Notably, there is a higher prevalence of celiac disease among children diagnosed with epilepsy. The connection between seizures and celiac disease extends to adults as well, possibly due to the condition's tendency to cause minute calcium deposits in the brain. This correlation underlines the importance of further research to better understand and manage the neurological implications of celiac disease.

10. Missed Periods

Amenorrhea, which is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for more than three consecutive months, affects approximately 20% of women who have celiac disease. These individuals might also encounter symptoms such as light and irregular menstrual bleeding, occasional spotting, and severe dysmenorrhea. Adherence to a gluten-free diet has been demonstrated in research to mitigate the occurrence of amenorrhea among some women with celiac disease.