Individuals who are intolerant to gluten may experience a wide array of symptoms affecting virtually every system of their bodies. Celiac disease is a genetic condition in which the body responds to gluten in food as it were a harmful bacteria. This action results in damage to the small intestine that affects nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies. These deficiencies may manifest themselves in neurological disorders, including impulsive behavior. Celiac disease affects about 1 in 133 Americans.
Cerebellar Ataxia
One common manifestation of neurological problems in celiac disease patients is cerebellar ataxia. This condition describes a lack of coordination during voluntary movements that may be interpreted as impulsive behavior. A 2009 study by the University of Marburg in Germany surveyed celiac disease patients regarding neurological symptoms they may have experienced. Researchers reported that 6 percent of participants experienced gait disturbances due to cerebellar ataxia. About 14 percent reported deep sensory loss and reduced ankle reflexes.
Psychiatric Issues
In addition to neurological disorders, gluten intolerance may be at the root of a host of psychiatric issues that can lead to inappropriate behavior. The 2009 study by the University of Marburg further reported other mental disorders associated with celiac disease. About 35 percent of patients reported a history of psychological problems, including depression, personality changes and psychosis. Because celiac disease can cause growth failure and delayed puberty, children may be at an added risk of developing emotional and behavioral problems.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are a common affliction among celiac disease patients. Difficulty sleeping often leads to changes in behavior during waking hours. A 2010 study by Federico II University of Naples in Italy found that sleeping disorders were a common occurrence with celiac disease patients throughout the course of diagnosis and treatment. The disorders were also associated with other psychological issues including depression, fatigue and anxiety.
Burden of Going Gluten-free
Gluten intolerance also carries a psychological burden that may be most keenly felt in children. A child may feel different or abnormal because of his dietary restrictions. He may displace his anger at his condition through inappropriate behavior. At times, he may feel tempted to try foods that contain gluten so he can feel part of the group. All of these examples of impulsive behavior show the psychological side of celiac disease. Because of the higher rate of psychological and emotional problems, a 2011 study published in "BMC Pediatrics" urges early detection to help improve the quality of life of these individuals.
References
- Celiac Disease Foundation: Celiac Disease Symptoms
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; Prevalence of Celiac Disease in At-Risk and Not-At-Risk Groups in the United States; A. Fasano, et al.; February 2003
- "Movement Disorders"; Neurological Symptoms in Patients with Biopsy Proven Celiac Disease; K. Burk, et al.; December 2009
- Mayo Clinic; Ataxia; March 1, 2011
- "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; The Quality of Sleep in Patients with Coeliac Disease; F. Zingone, et al.; October 2010
- "BMC Pediatrics"; Compliant Gluten-Free Children with Celiac Disease: An Evaluation of Psychological Distress; L. Mazzone, et al.; May 2011
