Symptoms:
There are no typical signs and symptoms of celiac disease. Most people with the disease have general complaints, such as:
- Intermittent diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
Sometimes people with celiac disease may have no gastrointestinal symptoms at all. Celiac disease symptoms 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.
Celiac disease may also present itself in less obvious ways, including:
- Irritability or depression
- Anemia
- Stomach upset
- Joint pain
- Muscle cramps
- Skin rash
- Mouth sores
- Dental and bone disorders (such as osteoporosis)
- Tingling in the legs and feet (neuropathy)
Some indications of malabsorption that may result from celiac disease include:
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps, gas and bloating
- General weakness and fatigue
- Foul-smelling or grayish stools that may be fatty or oily
- Stunted growth (in children)
- Osteoporosis
- Anemia
I found I had most of these symptoms, so I started a gluten free diet and ta da, pain and problems gone. I also had a blood test done to check everything else and make sure I am getting all the nutrients I need. My doctor told me that I have had the disease since childhood, but the signs become stronger over time and with more consumption of gluten. And that is why I have been diagnosed now.
My feelings on this new discovery: angry, depressed, confused and jaded. Let's face it, finding gluten free products is HARD! I take at least three naps a day and my legs fall asleep. Those are just two of the side effects from this terrible disease. Oh and to top it all off... this will not go away. Can't grow out of it, can't take a magic pill and you can't just ignore it. So I am devoting my blog time and space to help anyone with this disease find products in near by stores and restaurants with gluten free menus. Also let you know things I have tried and rate them. If you too have this disease and would like to share info with me, well PLEASE DO!
