Overview

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine as a result of an allergy to gluten infection. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Approximately 1 percent of Americans have celiac disease. A majority of these people are undiagnosed. The symptoms of this disease can vary from person to person. Celiac disease can be diagnosed with a blood test and/or biopsy of the small bowel.

Symptoms:

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating or gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Delayed growth
• Thin bones
• Anemia
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Itchy skin rash
• Irritability
• Tingling / numbness
• Discolored teeth
• Pale mouth sores
• Joint pain
• Infertility