Gluten is a protein found in many types of grains, including wheat, oats, barley and rye. While you may expect to find gluten in pasta, bread and other foods made from grains, gluten is also added to a variety of other products, including vitamins and medicines. Certain individuals cannot tolerate gluten because their immune system mistakenly attacks gluten, damaging the lining of the small intestines in the process. Gluten intolerance, which is also known as celiac disease, results in a wide variety of different symptoms, including muscle and joint pain.
Joint and Muscle Pain
Although the autoimmune reaction to gluten occurs inside the intestines, a person with gluten intolerance can experience symptoms throughout the body. When a person with gluten intolerance continues to eat gluten for a long time, the lining of the small intestine becomes extremely damaged. This damage prevents the small intestine from absorbing nutrients and minerals from food, which can lead to malnourishment. If the muscles and joints do not receive electrolytes and other nutrients, they can begin to cramp and spasm, leading to joint and muscle pain.
Other Non-Intestinal Symptoms
Many other nonintestinal symptoms may result from the malnourishment caused by gluten intolerance, including fatigue, anxiety, depression, easy bruising, nosebleeds and seizures. People with gluten intolerance frequently develop a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis that causes skin rashes. Women with gluten intolerance may miss menstrual periods, and may experience recurrent miscarriages and possibly infertility. Frequent canker sores and a tingling sensation in the hands and feet are also possible.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
The earliest symptoms triggered by eating gluten often involve the gastrointestinal system. Chronic diarrhea may occur, which may sometimes alternate with chronic constipation. Excessive gas, bloating, indigestion and abdominal pain may also result, as well as nausea and vomiting. In some cases, the stools may develop a bloody or oily appearance, and may be foul-smelling and float.
Variability in Symptoms
The range of symptoms resulting from gluten intolerance can vary greatly. Some adults may have the disease for long time with few or no symptoms. Adults with gluten intolerance are more likely to experience the nonintestinal symptoms, while children are more likely to develop the intestinal symptoms.
