Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue, is a digestive condition triggered by consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. If you have celiac disease, your body demonstrates an immune reaction to gluten, leading to damage in your small intestine and the inability to properly utilize certain nutrients. If left untreated, celiac disease can lead to devastating health consequences. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have celiac disease, seek guidance from your doctor.
Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea, or diarrhea that persists for more than two days, is a common symptom of celiac disease. Prior to diagnosis and treatment, people with celiac disease may experience bouts of constipation between recurrent bouts of diarrhea. In addition to loose, frequent stools associated with diarrhea, stools may appear pale or give off pungent smell. In severe cases, diarrhea can lead to dehydration and malabsorption of nutrients. According to the Mayo Clinic, many symptoms of celiac disease replicate those of irritable bowel syndrome, a set of symptoms that cause disturbances in the digestive tract. Diarrhea is a common aspect of many digestive disorders. If you experience chronic diarrhea, seek guidance and testing from your doctor.
Abdominal Pain and Bloating
Abdominal pain and bloating may occur in response to celiac disease. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), digestive symptoms such as these most commonly affect infants with the disorder. Children may exhibit irritability and frequent crying in response to digestive pains. The disorder tends to run in families, so if someone in your family is diagnosed with celiac disease, you and additional family members may wish to seek testing. If pain, bloating or other symptoms accompany family history of the illness, the likelihood of a correlation is increased. Keep in mind that a person must have gluten in his system in order for most tests to determine celiac disease. Talk to your doctor prior to eliminating gluten from your diet for best results.
Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss may indicate celiac disease. According to the NDDIC, such weight loss generally stems from malabsorption of nutrients. Since the body reacts harshly to gluten, digestion and absorption of other nutrients may reduce as well, particularly if diarrhea occurs. If you experience unexplained weight loss and suspect celiac disease at its root, seek proper testing. When left untreated, unhealthy weight loss and malabsorption of nutrients can lead to serious complications, including increased risk for infection and disease and loss of bone density. Celiac disease is treatable through adherence to a gluten-free diet. Though it may sound restrictive, most people find ways to adapt to other healthy and enjoyable food options and reap benefits of reduced or dissipated symptoms.
