Signs and Symptoms

There are no typical signs and symptoms for celiac disease. Most people with the disease have general complaints such as intermittent diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating, or they may have no gastrointestinal symptoms at all. The symptoms of celiac disease 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, stomach upset, joint pain, muscle cramps, skin rash, mouth sores, dental and bone disorders, and 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
• Foul-smelling or grayish stools that may be fatty or oily, including stools that float
• Stunted growth (in children)

Dermatitis herpetiformis is an itchy, blistering skin disease that also stems from gluten intolerance. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees and buttocks. Dermatitis herpetiformis can cause significant intestinal damage identical to that of celiac disease. However, it may not produce noticeable digestive symptoms. This disease is treated with a gluten-free diet, in addition to medication to control the rash.