Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that is triggered by an allergy to glutens such as wheat, barley, rye and oats. Growth can be stunted in children with untreated celiac disease, report experts at the Mayo Clinic. Eating small amounts of gluten causes an immune reaction in the small intestine and impairs the body's ability to absorb nutrients.
Testing
Celiac disease is a genetic disorder, so children presenting with any unusual symptoms should be checked for the disorder. Since there is such a wide range of symptoms associated with the disease, it can be difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms include diarrhea that occurs intermittently, bloating and chronic stomach aches.
Other Symptoms
Less common symptoms that can signal pediatric celiac disease often are not immediately diagnosed and can include anemia, joint pain, skin rash and muscle pains. Tingling in the feet and legs is an uncommon, but natural symptom of celiac disease. Signs of nutrition malabsorption can be seen in children who experience sudden weight loss, complain about stomach cramps and bloating and have unusually foul-smelling or grayish stools.
Skin Rash
Itchy, blistering skin can be symptom of celiac disease in children and is typically found on the elbows, knees and buttocks. Gluten intolerance that shows up as a rash can cause abdominal damage. At the same time, not all dermatological symptoms result in additional abdominal symptoms or severe growing pains.
Attention
If children experience any of the symptoms associated with celiac disease, they should be discussed with a doctor, particularly if they don't respond to treatment of other conditions like the flu or food poisoning. Seek medical attention for a child who develops a potbelly or who does not seem to be growing according to normal ranges. Children who are chronically pale and irritable also may have pediatric celiac disease.
Family Ties
The American Academy of Family Physicians reports children from families with a history of celiac disease are more prone to the disorder. Studies have shown that as many as 10 percent of first-degree relatives share the condition. Celiac disease can be caught in infancy if mild symptoms are detected and coupled with a family history. To prevent significant growth problems, it is vital to test infants for celiac disease who may be at risk for the illness or who show any signs of abdominal sensitivity, failure to thrive or growth delays.
