Symptoms and complications of celiac disease - nutrition celiac

Celiac disease is a chronic immune system condition that is triggered by the consumption of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals.

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. When a person with celiac disease ingests gluten, his or her immune system reacts and damages the lining of the small intestine, which interferes with the proper absorption of nutrients.

This disease can occur in people of any age and gender. Among the most common symptoms are chronic diarrhea, often accompanied by bloating, abdominal pain and gas. These symptoms arise due to inflammation in the small intestine and malabsorption of nutrients, which can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

In addition, other signs of celiac disease include constipation, weight loss, malnutrition, bone fragility, fatigue and muscle weakness. In some cases, affected individuals may also experience emotional changes such as anxiety, depression or difficulty concentrating.

The disease not only affects the digestive system, it can also have repercussions in other areas of the body. Some people may develop dermatitis herpetiformis, an itchy rash that appears on the elbows, knees and buttocks.

Nervous system symptoms such as headaches, tingling in the extremities and even seizures may also be observed. In rare cases, the disease can lead to liver complications, such as autoimmune hepatitis, or reproductive problems such as infertility and repeated miscarriages.

Not all people with celiac disease show clear symptoms. In some cases, the disease is silent or has mild symptoms, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Even so, constant exposure to gluten can damage the small intestine and increase the risk of serious long-term complications, such as osteoporosis or intestinal cancer.

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