Patient/caregiver was educated on symptoms gluten sensitivity as follows:
- Individuals with history of intolerance or allergy to gluten, upon consumption of gluten, can present with an allergic response that can cause damage to the inner lining of small intestine.
- In severe cases of intolerance to gluten, patients can present with celiac disease with gluten consumption.
- Small intestine is the major site of nutrient absorption and integrity of inner lining of small intestine is essential for needed nutrient absorption from the diet.
- Damage to the inner lining of small intestine in individuals with gluten sensitivity, upon consumption of gluten, can result in severe abdominal pain, fullness, and bloating.
- Poor absorption of water/fluid in the small intestine can result in excess loss of fluid in the stool, diarrhea, and consequent dehydration with dry skin.
- Poor absorption of iron due to damage to the small intestine in individuals with gluten sensitivity can result in anemia with pale skin and mucus membranes. Poor oxygen transport due to iron deficiency in such individuals can result in increasing shortness of breath and rapid heart rate.
- Poor calcium absorption in the small intestine due to gluten sensitivity can result in muscle cramps, skeletal pain, and weak bones that are increasingly prone to fractures.
- Malabsorption of B-complex vitamins in individuals with gluten sensitivity can contribute to general weakness and listlessness, with tingling, and numbness of the extremities.
