Signs and Symptoms of Celiac Disease
More than 200 symptoms can be seen in people with active celiac disease. It can affect many parts of the body, not just the digestive system. Below are a list of digestive symptoms and another list of symptoms that can occur outside the digestive system in celiac disease.
Because there are many different symptoms in celiac disease, family doctors and specialists need to pay extra attention and consider screening for celiac disease.
Digestive symptoms in celiac disease may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating or abdominal distension
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence (gas)
- Reflux/heartburn
- Fatty stools
- Vomiting
Symptoms outside the digestive tract may include:
- Abnormal level of liver enzymes
- Anemia
- Delayed puberty in children
- Dental enamel defects (in childhood)
- Fatigue
- Infertility and poor pregnancy outcomes
- Irritability/mood swings
- Joint pain/swelling
- Mouth ulcers
- Neurological problems, such as headaches, cognitive impairment, tingling in hands and feet
- Osteoporosis (poor bone density)
- Skin rashes
A Word About Malnutrition
Malnutrition is also a common problem in celiac disease.
Malnutrition can mean undernutrition or overnutrition. Undernutrition can lead to weight loss, or to poor growth (height and/or weight) in children. Overnutrition includes being overweight (about 15%-28% of adults) and having obesity (about 7%-11% of adults).
Nutrient deficiencies are also part of malnutrition and can happen at any stage of celiac disease. Deficiencies often appear at diagnosis because the inflamed and damaged intestine cannot absorb nutrients properly. They can also happen while following a strict gluten‑free diet, usually because of poor diet quality. The most common nutrient deficiencies in celiac disease include certain vitamins (A, folic acid, B12, D, E) and minerals (ferritin, iron, zinc, copper). Managing these deficiencies often requires taking supplements. A health care provider can help decide which supplements are needed.
Following a strict gluten-free diet but still having symptoms?
Your health care team, including family doctor, gastroenterologist and/or dietitian, can help you understand if ongoing symptoms are related to your celiac disease.
