Health & Care Information Learn about Celiac Disease sign and symptoms in children, infants and babies. Celiac disease also termed as celiac sprue is an autoimmune disorder. It is more common in children and genetically predisposed people.
The mucous membrane lining the digestive tract tends to degenerate during attacks of celiac disease in children, and the walls of the intestine become very thin. They lose more or less of their ability to absorb fats, carbohydrates, proteins, water, calcium, and vitamins A, B12, D and K.
Most medical scientists believe that celiac disease is an infantile form of sprue and allergy to wheat protein (gluten) may be a factor which causing it. Also it may occur in connection with the disease cystic fibrosis. Give the patient a diet low in fats, but abundant in proteins, fruits, fruit juices, iron, and vitamin A, B12, D, and K. Bananas may be helpful. Carefully avoid all foods made either wholly or partly from wheat.
Celiac Disease Symptoms in Children
Celiac Disease in children is more commonly found between the 1-5 years age group. When it occurs in adults, it is considered to be a form of non tropical sprue. Major celiac disease symptoms when fully developed are constipation, frothy stool, malabsorption, chronic diarrhea, abdominal distension, small intestine disease and retarded growth and development. The mouth and tongue are often sore, and the bones are likely to be fragile.
Obesity or overweight
It is commonly observed that children who are obese or over-weight are more prone to celiac disease due to strong correlation of obesity and celiac disease.
Chronic Diarrhea
Children suffering from celiac disease may have chronic diarrhea due to malfunctioning of ‘s lining.
Swollen belly
Swollen belly is an important sign of celiac disease but it is not necessary that swollen belly is always due to celiac disease because it may be due to ascites.
Growth retardation
Growth retardation is another important indication of celiac disease in children and infants because carriers of celiac disease have growth deceleration due to malabsorption of nutrients.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is common in celiac disease due to malfunctioning of small intestine.
Other Symptoms
Children suffering from from celiac disease may have delayed puberty, constipation, headaches and lack of muscle coordination.
