Symptoms celiac disease in adults typically begin with digestive system issues. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, not all patients experience digestive problems. Instead, systemic symptoms such as anemia, weight loss, chronic fatigue, or joint pain may appear.
Symptoms celiac disease in adults can lead to more complex health issues. For example, calcium absorption disorders may result in osteoporosis or dental enamel damage. Additionally, dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash, is considered a specific sign of celiac disease. The nervous system can also be affected, causing problems like nerve damage, depression, or anxiety.
Common symptoms of celiac disease include the following:
- Abdominal pain, bloating, and gas
- Diarrhea, oily stools (steatorrhea)
- Nausea, vomiting, and constipation
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Weight loss
- Osteoporosis due to calcium deficiency
- Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency
- Dermatitis herpetiformis (itchy rashes)
- Mouth ulcers, dental enamel damage
- Chronic fatigue, depression, and anxiety
- Numbness and tingling due to nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Menstrual irregularities, infertility, and miscarriage risk in women
- Joint and muscle pain
- Frequent infections due to a weakened immune system
Celiac Disease Symptoms In Adults
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system damages the small intestine due to gluten consumption. In adults, this disease can manifest with various symptoms beyond the digestive system.
Intestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea are prominent. However, non-digestive symptoms, including skin rashes, anemia, joint pain, and chronic fatigue, are also common. It is important to note that celiac disease is often confused with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Celiac disease is not merely a sensitivity but a serious immune-related condition.
Symptoms vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience allergy-like symptoms, itchy rashes, and respiratory problems. While allergies result from different immune responses, celiac disease involves gluten-triggered immune activation targeting the small intestinal tissue.
As the disease progresses, complications such as iron deficiency, osteoporosis, and neuropathy due to nerve damage may occur. Without treatment, severe intestinal damage can develop, leading to long-term health problems.
The most effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. Avoiding foods like wheat, barley, and rye is essential to control symptoms and promote intestinal healing.
Even during periods when symptoms subside, continuing the diet is crucial. Consuming gluten-free products and seeking dietary guidance significantly improve quality of life. Individuals suspecting celiac disease should consult a specialist for a definitive diagnosis through blood tests and endoscopic examinations.
Celiac disease can disrupt nutrient absorption due to immune responses in the body, leading to reduced energy levels. This may manifest as fatigue and drowsiness. Celiac disease is associated with genetic predisposition, and having a family history of the condition increases the risk for other members.
Inflammation caused by gluten in the body, along with vitamin and mineral deficiencies, can also contribute to drowsiness. Avoiding gluten-containing foods is key to alleviating these symptoms.
Untreated celiac disease can cause damage to intestinal villi over time, leading to serious health issues. Since celiac disease affects the structure of the small intestine, long-term complications like osteoporosis, infertility, and neuropathy-related neurological problems may develop. Persistent inflammation may also increase the risk of intestinal cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential when symptoms of celiac disease are noticed. Patients can prevent these complications by adhering to a gluten-free diet.
Celiac disease is diagnosed through blood tests to detect immune system antibodies, followed by an intestinal biopsy via endoscopy if necessary. Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of the disease. If symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue occur after consuming gluten, a specialist should be consulted. The treatment for celiac disease involves following a gluten-free diet, which should be initiated upon diagnosis.
