Signs that You Should Get Tested for Celiac Disease (or other gluten issues)

One of the most complicated aspects of celiac disease is the fact that there are so many possible symptoms that a person with celiac could possibly have. Almost all celiacs have had the similar experience of seeing a crazy number of specialized doctors, being given every pill on the market, and being diagnosed with every kind of ailment out there. Here is a list of some symptoms that you might see as a red flag for celiac disease or another kind of gluten sensitivity...

• A family member has been diagnosed with celiac disease or some kind of gluten intolerance.
• GI issues, IBS, abdominal pain, nausea, etc
• Skin issues; rashes, eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions to certain skin products
• You have been diagnosed with conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, thyroid issues, and adrenal issues.
• Anemia; pale skin, low red blood cell count
• For women: premenstrual disorders, irregular periods, infertility, difficult or problematic pregnancies, miscarriages
• Neurological/psychological issues; depression, seizures/epilepsy, ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, bipolar disorder, irritability/moodiness, brain fog, anxiety/panic attacks, OCD, restless leg syndrome
• Insomnia, other sleep issues
• Frequent headaches
• Organ issues like appendicitis, gall bladder, kidney, liver problems
• Dental issues like discolored teeth and enamel defects
• Other food intolerances like lactose intolerance
• Weight issues (underweight and can't gain weight easily or overweight and can't lose weight easily)
• Frequent infections/illnesses; sinus infection, strep throat, pink eye, bronchitis, ear infections, flu, common cold, etc
• Down syndrome
• Cancer- usually stomach, pancreatic, lymphoma
• Frequent or constant fatigue
• Canker sores/mouth ulcers
• In children: failure to thrive, difficulty in development, difficulty concentrating in school (often misdiagnosed as ADHD or ADD), short stature, bloated belly, leg aches and pains, irritability
• Asthma
• Hair issues; falling out, thinning, not growing, brittle
• Blood pressure is too high or too low

*About 40% of those with celiac have NO symptoms

*Be sure to continue eating gluten regularly before getting tested, or else the test will be skewed and you will not get a proper diagnosis.