Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. If you experience upper stomach cramps and sweating after consuming gluten, you may have celiac disease, which is characterized by intolerance to gluten. Gluten is commonly found in foods made with wheat, barley and rye, but may also be a component of medications, vitamins and cosmetics. Approximately two million Americans are affected by celiac disease, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Physiology
Small projections called villi line your small intestine. These villi increase the surface area of the small intestine and allow proper absorption of nutrients. If you have celiac disease, the consumption of gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the villi. When the villi are damaged, nutrients cannot be properly absorbed and are eliminated in the stool instead.
Causes
The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown, but it is believed to have some genetic components. Some people develop celiac disease after a major trauma, emotional stress, stomach surgery or intestinal surgery.
Other Symptoms
In addition to upper stomach cramps and sweating, celiac disease can cause a variety of other symptoms. Because the ingestion of gluten triggers a widespread autoimmune response, symptoms usually involve several different body systems. Possible symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, irritability, muscle cramps, joint pain, mouth sores, skin rash, tingling in the legs and feet, weight loss, weakness, fatigue and foul-smelling stools, according to MayoClinic.com. Celiac disease can also lead to anemia and the development of osteoporosis.
Treatment
Celiac disease cannot be cured. The only way to control the condition is to follow a completely gluten-free diet. When you remove gluten from your diet, the inflammation in the intestines will begin to subside over the course of a few days. Your diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, rice, potatoes and some dairy. All foods made from wheat, barley or rye should be avoided. It is important to read labels carefully and check medications and vitamins for gluten as well.
Considerations
If you do not follow a gluten-free diet, the damage to the villi in your intestine will be severe. Since damaged villi cannot properly absorb nutrients, you will become malnourished regardless of how much food you consume. Even a small amount of gluten can cause intestinal damage, so it is important to be strict. Even if you do not experience symptoms after consuming a small amount of gluten, the protein is still causing damage to the intestine.
