Symptom 6: Iron-deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia isn’t exclusive to those with celiac disease. Still, its prevalence in celiac patients is notably high. It’s a condition where the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells due to insufficient iron, leading to symptoms like fatigue, pallor, and dizziness.
The link between celiac and anemia revolves around the damaged small intestine. With persistent gluten consumption, the villi, responsible for nutrient absorption, are harmed. As a result, even if one’s diet is rich in iron, the body might not absorb it effectively, leading to this type of anemia.
The symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia can be so subtle that they’re often overlooked. A slight pallor, a tad more fatigue, or a hint of breathlessness might be dismissed as the result of a busy schedule. Yet, when these signs are persistent and coupled with other celiac symptoms, they warrant deeper investigation.
Blood tests can reveal the levels of hemoglobin and iron in the body. For those already diagnosed with celiac disease or showing other symptoms, such tests can be crucial. Identifying and addressing iron-deficiency anemia can make a marked difference in one’s quality of life.
Once the diagnosis is clear, the path forward involves iron supplementation and a dedicated gluten-free diet. As the intestines heal, iron absorption improves, gradually mitigating the symptoms of anemia. For many, this transformation brings a newfound zest for life and energy that seemed long lost. (6)
