Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where a person’s body cannot digest gluten. Instead, digesting gluten leads to damage to the small intestine.
Children and infants are more likely to show digestive symptoms than adults. Here are the most common symptoms found in infants and children:
Abdominal bloating and pain.You may notice your child is complaining about stomach aches or your infant is fussy and bloated.
Chronic diarrhea. Your child or infant experiencing frequent diarrhea could be a side-effect of Celiac disease.
Vomiting. If you notice your child or infant vomiting after meals take them to your pediatrician as this could be a symptom of Celiac disease.
Constipation. You may notice your infant or child has not had a bowel movement in a few days. On the other hand, they could have pale, foul-smelling or fatty stool. Both of these are symptoms of Celiac disease.
Weight loss. Your child may be losing weight or having trouble putting weight on as they grow. This symptom may be connected to delayed growth and puberty and failure to thrive, both of which are side-effects of Celiac disease.
Fatigue. Celiac disease can make your child or infant tired and groggy. This can contribute to irritability and other behavioral issues.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD can, in fact, be a side-effect of Celiac disease. If your child has ADHD it would be worthwhile to discuss the possibility of Celiac disease with your pediatrician.
Dental enamel defects of the permanent teeth is another side-effect of Celiac disease. It’s important for your child to see their dentist regularly in order to catch this symptom.
These are the most common side-effects of Celiac disease. It’s important to see your pediatrician if your child or infant shows any of these symptoms. Your pediatrician may recommend a gastrointestinal specialist as well.
