What are the symptoms of gluten intolerance?

Gluten-related symptoms differ among individuals. Frequent problems reported include:

• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness and fatigue
• Headache

Seek immediate medical care if you have any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in stool or black/tarry stools
• Continuous vomiting with inability to keep fluids down
• Sudden and marked weight loss
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting

If you experience any of these signs, go to the emergency department without delay.

Start with your primary care physician or internal medicine for initial assessment and referral. Depending on findings, one or more of the following specialties may be involved:

• Gastroenterology (for digestive symptoms)
• Dermatology and Venereal Diseases (for skin lesions)
• Immunology and Allergic Diseases (if allergy or immune causes are suspected)
• Family Medicine or Internal Medicine (initial assessment and coordination)
• Nutrition or dietetics specialist (for dietary planning and follow-up)

At the first visit the clinician will review your history (symptom timing, relation to foods, family history) and perform a physical exam; further tests or specialist referrals may be recommended. Practical tracking suggestions:

• Keep a short food and symptom diary for several days or weeks to identify triggers
• Record when symptoms started, how often they occur and their severity
• Discuss any family history of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity with your clinician
• Consult a healthcare professional or dietitian before making prolonged diet changes
• Supportive measures such as rest and adequate hydration and symptom monitoring can help while awaiting evaluation

A definitive diagnosis and treatment plan require specialist assessment; no treatment recommendations are given here.