November 21, 2008

Health Tip: Signs of Celiac Disease in Children

(HealthDay News) -- Celiac disease is a painful digestive disorder that can be controlled by eliminating gluten from the diet. Gluten is found in foods that contain wheat, barley, rye or oats.

The following symptoms may signal celiac disease in children, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Among babies, symptoms may include pain in the abdomen or diarrhea that may be bloody. Babies may also stop growing and fail to gain weight.
• Among young children, symptoms may include nausea, loss of appetite, sores in the mouth, anemia and skin rash.
• Children who become malnourished from celiac disease may have thin thighs, a small bottom, and a large, swollen belly.
• Among teens, symptoms may include stunted growth, delayed puberty, and hair loss.
• Lactose intolerance.
• An itchy, blistering skin problem.

-- Diana Kohnle

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