What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease is an immune reaction to gluten that can injure the small intestine and reduce nutrient absorption. Digestive symptoms may include recurring bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea or excess wind. Some people instead notice tiredness, unintended weight loss, mouth ulcers, an itchy rash, headaches or difficulty conceiving. Poor absorption can contribute to iron-deficiency anaemia or low folate or vitamin B12. Symptoms vary, and some people have few digestive complaints.

Arrange a clinical assessment for persistent bowel symptoms, unexplained anaemia, weight loss or symptoms after eating gluten. Testing commonly starts with a Blood Test and may need further assessment. Keep eating gluten until a clinician advises otherwise, because removing it beforehand can make testing harder to interpret. A Nutrition Counselling appointment can help with a balanced diet after diagnosis is confirmed.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, black or bloody stools, fainting, marked dehydration or inability to eat and drink. Arrange prompt review for ongoing weight loss, profound weakness, or symptoms of anaemia such as breathlessness with ordinary activity.

Ask whether your symptoms need coeliac testing, whether you should continue gluten before the test, and what other causes of bloating or anaemia should be considered. Ask how deficiencies will be checked and when dietary support is appropriate.