Growing in popularity, a gluten-free diet can help treat many different conditions for those with intolerance and celiac disease. Lesser known is the relationship between consuming gluten and the presence of dermatitis. If you suspect a gluten-free diet may help alleviate your dermatitis symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor or a registered dietitian.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a type of protein in the grains wheat, barley and rye. People with certain conditions, including celiac disease and gluten intolerance, can have adverse reactions to this protein. Oats have also been known to contain trace amounts of gluten from manufacturing but can be purchased as gluten-free.
What is Dermatitis?
Dermatitis is a skin condition with symptoms ranging from dry skin to itchiness, pain, swelling, stinging, blisters and burning sensations. Individuals with dermatitis often have other autoimmune conditions or allergies. This condition can be treated with creams, allergy medications and antihistamines or even antibiotics when it is necessary to treat infection.
How Gluten Can Affect Dermatitis
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, untreated celiac disease can cause a condition known as dermatitis herpetiformis. This happens when the IgA -- immunoglobulin A -- antibody collects in the skin and creates itchy, inflamed lesions on the affected area. This condition is most often found on the elbows, knees, scalp or back.
What to Remember
For extreme cases, medication may be required to alleviate the presence of lesions on the skin. When celiac disease is present, a strict gluten-free diet must be adhered to if further lesions are to be avoided. Consuming gluten with celiac disease can endanger other organs in the body, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. The gluten-free diet must be maintained even after the dermatitis is gone.
