When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, their body overreacts to the protein and damages their villi, small finger-like projections found along the wall of their small intestine. This damage to the villi and the resulting malabsorption of nutrients contributes to some of the long-term symptoms associated with undiagnosed celiac disease, such as diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and gas, nausea and vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, bone or joint pain, anemia, peripheral neuropathy, and depression or anxiety. The symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly and may be different in children and adults. Digestive symptoms for adults include abdominal pain, anemia, bloating or a feeling of fullness, bone or joint pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, itchy, blistery rash, headaches or fatigue, mouth ulcers, nausea, nervous system injury, including numb or tingling hands or feet, balance problems, or changes in. People with celiac disease often experience a delayed reaction to eating gluten, and it can take two to three days after eating gluten before symptoms occur.

If a celiac eats gluten, they should take the following steps to manage their symptoms and help their intestines heal:

• Get some rest.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush gluten out of your system.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help relieve any pain or discomfort.
• Avoid eating any more gluten.
• Contact your doctor or dietitian for advice on how to manage your symptoms and prevent future gluten exposure.

It is important for people with celiac disease to follow a strict gluten-free diet to manage their symptoms and help their intestines heal.