Can Celiac Disease Cause Stomach Ulcers?
May 23, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Celiac disease does not directly cause stomach ulcers, but it can lead to conditions and complications that might increase the risk of developing ulcers or ulcer-like symptoms. Here are several ways celiac disease can be linked to stomach ulcers or similar issues:
- Inflammation and Damage to the Gut Lining: Celiac disease causes inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine when gluten is consumed. This can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain that might be mistaken for ulcers.
- Increased Risk of Other Gastrointestinal Disorders: Individuals with celiac disease have a higher risk of developing other gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) and Helicobacter pylori infection, both of which can lead to stomach ulcers.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Malabsorption of nutrients due to celiac disease can lead to deficiencies in important nutrients like iron, which can contribute to the development of gastrointestinal symptoms and complications, including peptic ulcers.
- Autoimmune Associations: Celiac disease is associated with other autoimmune conditions that can affect the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to ulcer-like symptoms. For example, autoimmune gastritis can cause inflammation of the stomach lining and might be more common in individuals with celiac disease.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): People with celiac disease may use NSAIDs to manage joint pain or other symptoms. These medications can increase the risk of developing stomach ulcers.
It is important to distinguish between the direct effects of celiac disease on the intestines and conditions that might coexist or be more prevalent in individuals with celiac disease, potentially leading to symptoms similar to those of stomach ulcers.
If you have celiac disease and are experiencing symptoms that suggest stomach ulcers, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or black or tarry stools, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment. Managing celiac disease with a strict gluten-free diet is essential to prevent complications and maintain overall gastrointestinal health.