Wheat Sensitivity Symptoms and Bladder Pain

Wheat sensitivity is the inability to digest wheat proteins, such as gluten, fully. Although not known to cause bladder disorders directly, wheat gluten may worsen symptoms of conditions like interstitial cystitis in sensitive individuals.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Because wheat passes through the digestive tract directly, GI symptoms are often the most prevalent in people with wheat sensitivity. Common symptoms include bloating, nausea, and constipation or diarrhea.

Sensitivity

• Although not as serious as wheat allergy, wheat sensitivity can cause delayed allergy-like symptoms, such as nasal congestion, skin rash, and fatigue.

Interstitial Cystitis

• The pro-inflammatory properties of wheat gluten can worsen symptoms of bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis, according to womentowomen.com. Other possible causes of bladder pain include bladder infection, endometriosis, and bladder cancer.

Considerations

• In some instances, symptoms of wheat sensitivity can signal a more serious condition like celiac disease, a condition in which the immune system attacks the small intestine whenever gluten is ingested. Left untreated, celiac disease can cause serious complications such as osteoporosis and lymphoma.

Prevention/Solution

• People with wheat sensitivity can prevent symptoms by avoiding or limiting exposure to food products containing wheat. Bladder pain can be relieved using over-the-counter pain relievers and a heating pad but should always be examined by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.