When should you worry about abdominal pain if you have coeliac disease?

Coeliac Disease is an immune reaction to gluten that can affect the small intestine. Abdominal pain may occur with bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea or fatigue. Symptoms can flare after accidental gluten exposure, but ongoing pain may also reflect another digestive problem, difficulty following a gluten-free plan, or a complication that needs assessment.

Keep a brief record of pain, bowel changes, meals, possible cross-contact and medicines. Continue the gluten-free plan already advised and avoid making major dietary restrictions without professional guidance. Arrange a review if symptoms persist, return often, interfere with eating, or are accompanied by ongoing tiredness or unplanned weight change. A clinician may review nutrition and treatment adherence.

Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen or rigid abdomen, blood in vomit or stool, black stools, high fever, faintness, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. These symptoms need prompt assessment even when you have an established diagnosis of Coeliac Disease.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest gluten exposure or another cause, whether blood tests or other checks are needed, and how to protect nutrition while symptoms settle. Mention bowel changes, weight change, medicines, supplements and any difficulty accessing suitable foods.