A lifetime intolerance to gluten is known as celiac disease. If anyone with celiac disease consumes gluten, it affects the lining of their intestines. As a result, they are unable to absorb the nutrients and may experience a number of symptoms. This condition is not rare; both children and adults experience it. In this blog, we will discuss the celiac disease symptoms and children. Carry on reading to learn the symptoms and more!
Causes of Celiac Disease in Children
The exact cause of celiac disease remains unclear. However, a factor that develops celiac disease is genetic. Generally, children with celiac disease have inherited one specific gene from their parents that puts them at risk of this disease. However, many people with the gene never develop this condition!
According to some researchers, a combination of factors such as having the genes, gluten exposure, and exposure to a toxin or an infection could be responsible for celiac disease. There are also some conditions associated with celiac disease, including type 1 diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, etc., and genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, etc.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease in Children
Celiac disease can develop many symptoms in children, and they vary for each child depending on their age. Generally, children under the age of 3 experience the following celiac disease symptoms:
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Bloating or abdominal distension
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Increased fatigue
- Weight loss
- Poor weight gain
- Poor growth
- Mouth ulcers that appear frequently
Nowadays, we have blood tests that can help diagnose celiac disease. This helps the doctors become familiar with the atypical signs and symptoms of celiac disease in older children. Here are some atypical celiac disease symptoms that are observed in children:
- Behavioral problems
- Iron deficiency
- Arthritis
- Migraines
- Seizures
- Neuropathy
- Delayed puberty
- Hepatitis
Treating Celiac Disease
Since gluten is mainly responsible for celiac disease, avoiding gluten is the most effective treatment. A gluten-free diet allows the intestines to heal and usually eliminates the symptoms of celiac disease; the affected person may have to follow the diet for their entire life.
You can consult a registered dietitian or an expert who will help you know the following about a gluten-free diet:
- Foods that are safe to consume
- Foods to avoid
- Reading a food label
- What some ingredients mean
- How to nutritionally balance your child’s gluten-free diet
To Wrap it All
Celiac disease can show up in many ways in children and adults. Generally, children under the age of 3 experience bloating, fatigue, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, decreased appetite, and other symptoms. Older children, too, develop celiac disease, and they may have iron deficiency, migraines, and other issues. You should visit a doctor if you notice celiac disease symptoms in your children.
Gastroenterology Diagnostic Center is here to eliminate your gastrointestinal issues, including celiac disease. Our experts can diagnose and treat celiac disease in both children and adults. Dial (281) 357 1977 to talk to us now!
