This would cause the child to have a large tummy, thin thigh muscles and flat buttocks. Teenagers may hit puberty late and be short. Adults who begin to be ill with celiac disease might have a general feeling of poor health, with fatigue, irritability and depression, even if they have few intestinal problems. A symptom of osteoporosis may be night-time bone pain. It usually disappears when they follow a gluten-free diet.
Celiac disease is serious.
Fortunately you can control celiac disease just by not eating any gluten. By following the right diet, you can reverse the damage caused by celiac disease and you'll feel better. You'll have to explain your problem and the gluten-free diet to your family members and ask for their support and help. It will take time for you and your family to learn how to avoid gluten in your diet. You can contact one of the celiac support groups listed at the end of this handout.