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Signs and Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance

Bloating

Bloating is one of the most common signs of gluten intolerance; it occurs when the body struggles to break down and process gluten in the food we eat. This can result in gas that causes the abdomen to swell. Bloating is often accompanied by flatulence and physical discomfort. This symptom will likely manifest to some degree every time an affected person eats food that contains gluten. That includes anything made with wheat, rye, or barley, and processed and packaged foods that contain these grains. To prevent bloating, most affected people need to eliminate these foods from their diet.

Headaches

Researchers don't understand the link between headaches and gluten intolerance very well. They do know, however, the people with gluten intolerance may experience recurring severe headaches or migraines. Often, people who get migraines do not recognize this as a result of eating gluten. Trying a gluten-free diet could help reduce the number, duration, and intensity of headaches and migraines if gluten intolerance is the problem.

Abdominal Cramps

Because those with gluten intolerance are unable to digest gluten properly, it may cause a wide array of digestive symptoms, including abdominal cramping. This pain occurs when muscles in the digestive tract spasm. Depending on the severity of the intolerance, this pain ranges from mild to very intense. A doctor can prescribe medicine that will alleviate this symptom. However, when gluten is the cause, the best remedy is to cut foods that contain gluten from one's diet.

Rash

In severe cases of gluten intolerance, including celiac disease, people may experience a rash known as dermatitis herpetiformis. The itchy skin condition can develop all over the body, most commonly on the knees, elbows, buttocks, and scalp. Many describe it as blisters or bumps that burn. As with many symptoms, individuals may not initially realize the cause.

Constipation

About a quarter of people with gluten intolerance have recurring constipation. Bowel movement frequency declines, which may result in cramping and abdominal pain. Typically, constipation makes a person strain during bowel movements, which can cause other problems. Taking laxatives and other medication meant to induce bowel movements too often can also cause damage over time.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is an unpleasant symptom of gluten intolerance, in which bowel movements are loose, watery, and may smell foul. About half of people with gluten intolerance experience this symptom instead of constipation. This digestion complication occurs when damage to the intestines makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients. Consuming gluten can trigger cramping and spasms in the digestive tract that force food to move too quickly through the body. As a result, the food is forced out before it can be properly digested. This can result in secondary symptoms such as dehydration and exhaustion because the process expels useful nutrients and electrolytes before they can be absorbed.