Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, oats and barley. Many people experience an allergy related to grains. Specific intolerance to gluten may also be celiac disease, in which the body reacts abnormally to gluten. Common symptoms of gluten intolerance are digestive problems, but joint inflammation may also occur. Consult your physician if you are experiencing any pain in your hip that is out of the norm.
Gluten Intolerance
Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that can cause damage to the small intestines. Eating gluten causes the immune system to attack a part of the small intestine, leaving the body unable to properly absorb nutrients and to become malnourished. Symptoms of celiac disease can occur in any part of the body, but digestive symptoms are more common, especially in children. Digestive symptoms include constipation, diarrhea, bloating and weight loss. Other symptoms more common in adults include bone loss, arthritis, joint pain, seizures, fatigue and depression.
Hip Pain
Many factors can cause pain in the hip joint. Osteoarthritis is a common cause, but injury to the hip joint may also contribute to hip pain. Some injuries of the hip include bursitis, strains, fractures, hernia and tendinitis. Pinched nerves, such as a herniated disk or sciatica, can cause pain to the hip joint. Less common causes include bone cancer, rickets and osteoporosis. Hip pain from an injury is often acute and more severe. Chronic hip pain, such as arthritis, develops slowly over time.
Gluten and Hip Pain
Ensure that you seek medical treatment to rule out other possible causes of your hip pain. Your doctor can test you for celiac disease by performing a blood test. People with the disorder often have higher levels of certain antibodies in their blood. Some people may not have celiac disease but are more sensitive to gluten products. A sensitivity to gluten or other foods often causes an immune response that can include inflammation of the joints.
Treatment
For celiac disease and other gluten sensitivities, the only treatment is to avoid gluten in your diet. Keep a journal to note when you eat gluten and when you notice any hip pain to ensure that gluten is the culprit. If you notice any connection, avoid foods and other products containing gluten. Many companies are offering gluten-free products and health food stores usually have a wide variety of gluten-free foods. Some food has hidden sources of gluten in additives and preservatives, so check the labels carefully to ensure you are avoiding the protein.
