Signals of Gluten Intolerance: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Gluten intolerance is a frequent illness in which the body reacts negatively to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and other grains. Gluten intolerance can present itself in a variety of ways and impact various sections of the body.
In this post, we will look at all of the symptoms of gluten intolerance, as well as the diagnostic and treatment options.
What is Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten intolerance, also known as gluten sensitivity, is a disorder in which the body has an adverse reaction to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten intolerance causes the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine, resulting in a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance
The symptoms of gluten intolerance can vary widely, and some people may experience only a few symptoms, while others may have many. Here are some of the most common symptoms of gluten intolerance:
Digestive Symptoms
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating and flatulence
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Skin Symptoms
- Eczema
- Itchy skin
- Dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash that affects around 10% of people with gluten intolerance
Neurological Symptoms
- Headaches and migraines
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Brain fog and confusion
- Depression and anxiety
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
- Joint and muscle pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and brittle
Other Symptoms
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Weight loss or gain
- Hormonal imbalances
- Infertility
It’s important to note that some of these symptoms might be caused by other disorders, so seek a complete diagnosis before presuming gluten intolerance is the cause.
Diagnosis of Gluten Intolerance
The only way to diagnose gluten intolerance is to undergo a gluten-free diet trial. This involves eliminating all gluten-containing foods from the diet for several weeks and then reintroducing them to see if there is a reaction. During this time, it’s important to keep a food diary to track any symptoms.
Other tests that can help diagnose gluten intolerance include:
- Blood tests to check for the presence of certain antibodies
- Biopsy of the small intestine to look for damage to the villi, tiny structures that absorb nutrients
Treatment of Gluten Intolerance
The only treatment for gluten intolerance is a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods that contain gluten, including bread, pasta, cereals, and baked goods. Some processed foods, such as sauces, dressings, and soups, may also contain gluten, so it’s essential to read labels carefully.
It’s also essential to ensure that the diet is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients. People with gluten intolerance may need to take supplements to make up for any deficiencies.
Conclusion
Gluten intolerance is a disorder that can present in various ways and affect various sections of the body.
The symptoms can range from minor to severe, and it’s critical to receive a good diagnosis before presuming gluten intolerance is the culprit.
Gluten intolerance can only be treated with a rigorous gluten-free diet, which can be difficult to follow but is required for optimal health.
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6630947/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8224613/
https://gi.md/resources/articles/got-a-celiac-disease-diagnosis-whats-next
