What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
Symptoms of celiac disease include:
- Gas, a swollen belly, and bloating. This happens because the small intestine can't absorb nutrients from food. You may also have mild stomach pain, but it usually isn't severe.
- Abnormal stools. Diarrhea or bulky, loose (or watery), pale, frothy, and foul-smelling stools often occur. The stools may contain a large amount of fat and may stick to the sides of the toilet bowl, making them hard to flush. Children and adults often have the same types of symptoms. But intestinal problems, such as constipation, are more likely to occur in children.
- Weight loss. Adults and children may have unexplained weight loss despite having a normal appetite. Younger children may fail to gain weight and grow as expected. This is called failure to thrive.
- Fatigue and weakness. Celiac disease can cause a general lack of energy and strength. Sometimes poor nutrient absorption causes fatigue and weakness.
- Vomiting. Some people may get sick after eating gluten. Children are more likely than adults to have this reaction.
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet (neuropathy).
Symptoms may come and go. They may be very mild and go completely unnoticed. Or they may be severe symptoms that impact your daily life.
