Symptoms of GLUTEN-RESTRICTED DIET

Unfortunately, there are usually not specific symptoms or physical signs associated with celiac disease. In general, people with this disorder may complain of intermittent diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating, or they may have no gastrointestinal symptoms at all. The symptoms of celiac disease can also mimic those of other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastric ulcers, Crohn's disease, parasite infections, anemia, skin disorders or a nervous condition. Malabsorption may produce other symptoms. These may include irritability or depression, stomach upset, joint pain, muscle cramps, skin rash, mouth sores, dental and bone disorders, and tingling in the legs and feet. Other signs of malabsorption that may result from celiac disease include weight loss and diarrhea. Abdominal pain, gas and bloating may occur. Foul smelling stools develop. Children may experience stunted growth. A skin disease, Dermatitis herpetiformis, may occur. It is an itchy, blistering skin disease that also stems from gluten intolerance. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees and buttocks. Dermatitis herpetiformis can cause significant intestinal damage identical to that of celiac disease. However, it may not produce noticeable digestive symptoms. Like celiac disease, Dermatitis herpetiformis is also treated with a gluten-free diet, in addition to medication to control the rash.