Celiac disease is a disorder in which the body cannot digest a protein called gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, rye and barley products such as bread and pasta. Gluten causes an allergic reaction in the gastrointestinal tract, which damages it. The result is a number of gastrointestinal symptoms and malabsorption, or the inability to digest certain foods and nutrients. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that may be difficult to absorb, causing further symptoms.
Diarrhea, Constipation, Abdominal Pain, Bloating
Because celiac disease is a primary disease of the gastrointestinal system, many of the symptoms are GI related, according to "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment" by Drs. Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine Papadakis. These include diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and bloating. The nutrient deprivation from the malfunctioning intestinal tissues can also lead to weight loss, fatigue and foul-smelling, discolored stool.
Joint Pain, Muscle Cramps
Celiac disease can cause joint pains and muscle cramps and pain, as noted by "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" by Anthony Fauci M.D. In addition, the vitamin D deficiency from the disease can cause osteoporosis. Vitamin D normally helps the body regulate calcium. If not enough vitamin D is available, calcium levels drop in the blood. The body responds by taking calcium out of the bones, decreasing their density and making them weak. This can increase fracture and other injuries. In children, vitamin D deficiency causes rickets, which stunts growth.
Numbness, Tingling, Depression, Irritability
Other organ systems are affected as well. The effects on the nervous system cause numbness and tingling in the arms and legs. In the brain, the effects can cause depression or irritability. Blood counts can also become low, a condition called anemia, which can make fatigue worse and cause the skin to be pale. There may also be skin rashes and mouth sores.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee and Maxine Papadakis; 49th Ed 2009
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" Anthony S. Fauci; 17th Ed 2008
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