Symptom 4: Dermatitis Herpetiformis
While most symptoms of celiac disease revolve around digestive issues, there are manifestations outside the gut. A prime example is dermatitis herpetiformis, an itchy, blistering skin condition. Think of it as celiac disease’s external manifestation, a visible sign of the internal turmoil caused by gluten.
The rash can appear on various body parts, including the elbows, knees, and buttocks. For children, the presence of this rash can be incredibly distressing. The constant itch can lead to sleepless nights, agitation, and even scars from persistent scratching.
But how does a digestive ailment manifest on the skin? When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, an IgA antibody is produced, which, instead of protecting the body, ends up settling in the skin layers. This accumulation leads to the itchy blisters associated with dermatitis herpetiformis.
For parents, seeing their child in discomfort can be heartbreaking. There’s an urge to find relief, which might come in the form of creams or ointments. However, true relief from this symptom lies in addressing the root cause – the gluten in the child’s diet. (4)
