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Mental Side Effects of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that makes it difficult for the small intestine to absorb certain nutrients. The disorder is triggered when a person eats gluten, which is found in wheat, rye or barley. A wide variety of symptoms are associated with the disease, including depression and anxiety.

  1. Symptoms

    • According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, symptoms of celiac disease vary widely from person to person. Digestive symptoms include abdominal pain and vomiting. Fatigue, diarrhea and muscle cramps may occur.

    Mental Symptoms

    • Mental side effects of celiac disease include irritability, depression and anxiety. According to the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine, psychiatric disorders are common in people with untreated celiac disease. One study found that a third of patients with the disease suffered from depression (http://psy.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/43/4/331, 3rd paragraph).

    Causes

    • Depression and anxiety may be triggered by the impact celiac disease has on the nervous system, according to celiac.com. Shortages of tryptophan, which creates a sense of well-being, may also play a role.

    Disease Management

    • The stress of managing life with a disease can contribute to depression among sufferers.

    Treatment

    • In some cases, treatment of celiac disease will ease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mental side effects should not be ignored. Talk to your doctor to determine the best course of action.

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