Common celiac disease symptoms
- Reviewed by Lawrence S. Friedman, MD, Contributor; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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Summary Celiac disease affects everyone differently. While some people develop digestive symptoms, such as bloating and diarrhea, many adults also experience non-digestive symptoms, such as anemia or osteoporosis. Others have no noticeable symptoms despite intestinal damage. |
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract. In people with celiac disease, an allergic reaction is triggered when gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley) is ingested. Over time, the immune reactions triggered by gluten inflame and damage small structures on the surface of the small intestine.
Unmanaged celiac disease can cause uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea, as well as symptoms that affect other parts of the body. Some symptoms result from inflammation in the intestine, while other symptoms stem from nutrient deficiency caused by the failure of the damaged intestine to digest food properly.
The symptoms of celiac disease vary so widely that there is no such thing as a typical case. While some people develop classic digestive symptoms, many adults have less typical signs of celiac disease, such as anemia, bone loss, weight loss, or joint pain. Some people have few or no symptoms at all, which can delay a medical diagnosis.
Digestive symptoms
Digestive symptoms of celiac disease are more common in children than adults. Children generally develop symptoms only after they start eating foods that contain gluten.
Digestive symptoms of celiac disease may include:
- bloating
- diarrhea
- constipation
- gas
- lactose intolerance
- loose, greasy, bulky, foul-smelling stools
- nausea or vomiting
- abdominal pain.
Non-digestive symptoms, or other signs in the body
Some people with celiac disease experience symptoms that affect other parts of the body. These are typically caused by poor absorption of nutrients and include:
- bone or joint pain
- iron-deficiency anemia
- weight loss
- arthritis
- fatigue
- bone loss or osteoporosis
- tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
- dermatitis herpetiformis (a skin condition characterized by extremely itchy bumps or blisters)
- depression, irritability, or mood changes
- delayed-start or missed menstrual periods
- infertility or repeated miscarriages
- symptoms involving the mouth, such as canker sores
- liver disease
- seizures (rarely)
How long after eating gluten can symptoms start?
The reaction and reaction time varies. Some people will have a reaction within two to three hours of gluten consumption. Others may not feel anything until the next day or a few days after, and some not at all.
What are the most common symptoms after exposure to gluten?
The most common symptoms after exposure to gluten in a person with celiac disease include:
- nausea
- vomiting (very severe in some cases)
- gas/bloating
- cramps
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- constipation
- tiredness
- brain fog
- muscle and joint pain.
Treatment of celiac disease
Treatment for celiac disease is focused on eliminating gluten from the diet to prevent recurring symptoms. Dietary changes should be made in consultation with a doctor.
After a person begins avoiding foods that contain gluten, symptoms typically improve and may go away. However, if a person consumes small amounts of gluten, symptoms may flare up.
About the Author
Jenette Restivo, Health Writer; Assistant Director for Digital Content Creation and Engagement, Harvard Health Publishing
About the Reviewer
Lawrence S. Friedman, MD, Contributor; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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