Celiac disease is a digestive condition in which eating gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction inside the small intestine, leading to damage in the digestive system. Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye. While celiac disease often causes malnutrition and other symptoms, neurological symptoms may also develop in approximately 10 percent of cases, according to the University of Chicago Center for Peripheral Neuropathy.
Peripheral Neuropathy
One of the most common neurological symptoms associated with celiac disease is peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves that connect the brain to the rest of the body become damaged. Doctors do not know exactly why peripheral neuropathy develops in people with celiac disease. One theory is that the immune attack on the intestines triggered by gluten also causes the immune system to attack the peripheral nerves. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy often begin with a tingling, numbing, or burning sensation in the hands or feet. This sensation may spread up the arms and legs. Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can lead to serious complications including loss of bladder and bowel control and complete paralysis, according to MayoClinic.com.
Myelopathy
Celiac disease can also cause myelopathy, a condition in which the spinal cord becomes pinched by the bones in the spine, explains the Celiac Sprue Association. Again, doctors do not fully understand why celiac disease sometimes causes this neurological symptom. The cause may be inflammation of the bones in the spine brought on by the hyperactive immune activity triggered by gluten. The inflamed bones may narrow the space inside the spine that contains the spinal cord, causing the spinal cord to become pinched. Symptoms of myopathy include severe pain, tightening of the muscles in the hands, feet, arms and legs, difficulty moving individual fingers or toes, and coordination problems such as difficulty walking.
Dementia and Seizures
Celiac disease is also linked to an increased risk for dementia. Dementia is a progressive decline of mental functioning characterized by problems with memory, concentration, judgment and language. Severe problems with behavior may also occur, leading to difficulty functioning in society. Celiac disease also increases the risk for seizures. Some patients with celiac disease may develop epilepsy if they continue to consume gluten as part of their diet, explains the Celiac Sprue Association.
