Sometimes it is easy to feel that you have a gluten sensitivity. When this is the case, it is in your best interest to consult with your medical practitioner for an accurate diagnosis. After all, the last thing you want is to be surprised that you’re actually making do with this medical condition without your knowledge.
However, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for a gluten intolerance test. These signs and symptoms can help you identify if gluten intolerance is a potential concern for you. And that’s what this quick guide will help you uncover. Read on below!
Abdominal Pain
Chronic abdominal pain or discomfort, especially after consuming gluten-containing foods, may suggest a gluten sensitivity. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other digestive symptoms like bloating or changes in bowel movements. Of course, it is also true that your abdominal pain could be as a result of a totally different health complication and your doctor will help you determine this.
Constant Headaches
Recurring headaches or migraines, especially after consuming gluten, could also indicate yoursensitivity to the protein. These headaches can be debilitating and may be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. Don’t hesitate to enlist medical attention if you constantly make do with headaches that fail to go away.
Skin Issues
You might not know this, but common skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis herpetiformis (a gluten-related skin rash) may be linked to gluten sensitivity. These skin problems can lead to itching, redness, and discomfort. They may also appear on different parts of the body and tend vary in severity. If you experience any of them, then a gluten intolerance test might be ideal.
Autoimmune Conditions
Some autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease, are directly linked to gluten intolerance. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues in response to gluten consumption. Always ensure that you’re aware of any family history of autoimmune diseases and discuss it with your medical practitioner.
