What is a common symptom of celiac disease in children?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In children, one of the most common symptoms is abdominal pain and diarrhea. This occurs because, in response to gluten, the immune system damages the lining of the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption. This damage can lead to malabsorption, resulting in gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. In severe cases, children may also experience weight loss and growth delays due to the inability to absorb essential nutrients effectively.

While other symptoms can occur, such as iron deficiency anemia or skin rashes, the hallmark gastrointestinal symptoms are typically what present first in pediatric cases. Thus, abdominal pain and diarrhea stand out as primary manifestations of celiac disease in children.