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Gluten sensitivity or celiac disease? What should you do if you suspect it?

Many people experience recurring digestive or general symptoms that may be linked to gluten. This often raises the question: could I be gluten sensitive or even have celiac disease?

It's important to know that self-diagnosis is never enough. Gluten-related issues can appear in several forms, and only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis. This article will help you navigate the first steps and understand where to start.

What could be the warning signs?

• Recurring bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation
• Constant fatigue and low energy levels
• Iron-deficiency anemia or other vitamin deficiencies
• Headaches and difficulty concentrating ("brain fog")
• Skin problems (eczema, rashes)
• Joint pain
• Slower growth or developmental delayin children

These symptoms alone do not necessarily prove a gluten-related issue, but if several of them occur together, it's worth investigating further.

First steps if you suspect gluten sensitivity

1. Don't start a gluten-free diet right away!
   If you eliminate gluten before undergoing medical tests, the results (such as blood tests or biopsies) may come back falsely negative.
2. Consult your doctor or a gastroenterologist!
   They can refer you the appropriate blood tests (e.g. anti-TG2 antibodies, EMA antibodies) and if necessary, an endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Seek dietary guidance!
   It's worth consulting a nutrition specialist even before a confirmed diagnosis - this helps you avoid unnecessary or potentially harmful dietary mistakes.

Test: Should you consider getting tested?

(Important: this is not a diagnosis - for informational purposes only.)

1. How often do you experience bloating, abdominal pain, or diarrhea?
a) Almost never
b) A few times a month
c) Several times a week

2. Have you ever been diagnosed with iron, vitamin B12, or vitamin D deficiency?
a) No, never
b) Once, but the cause was unclear
c) Several times, and no clear explanation was found

3. Are there autoimmune diseases in your family (e.g. thyroid disorders, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease)?
a) No
b) Yes, in more distant relatives
c) Yes, in an immediate family member

4. Do you often experience headaches, fatigue, or "brain fog"?
a) Rarely or never
b) Sometimes, during stressful periods
c) Regularly, without any clear reason

5. If you have a child, have you noticed growth delays, loss of appetite, or persistent digestive issues?
a) No
b) Occasionally
c) Yes, and it has been going

6. How would you describe the condition of your skin?
a) Generally fine
b) Occasionally I get rashes, eczema or itching
c) Frequent skin problems without any clear cause

7. Have you experienced persistent, unexplained wight loss or difficulty gaining weight?
a) No
b) A mild, temporary issue
c) Yes, it has been ongoing for some time

8. Do you often have joint or muscle pain that can't be explained otherwise?
a) No
b) Sometimes, occasionally
c) Yes, it happens repeatedly

9. Do you often feel tired even after resting?
a) No
b) Sometimes, when I'm overworked
c) Yes, it's a constant problem

10. Do you experience constipation or alternating diarrhea-constipation cycles?
a) Rarely
b) Sometimes, during stressful periods
c) Yes, regularly

Scoring system:

• a) = 0 point
• b) = 1 point
• c) = 2 points

Evaluation: 

0–6 points

Low risk

It's unlikely that gluten is the cause of your symptoms, but keep paying attention to your body's signals.

7–14 points

Medium risk

It's worth visiting your general practitioner and discussing your symptoms. Further medical tests may be necessary.

15–20 points

High risk

A gastroenterological examination is strongly recommended, as your symptoms may indicate gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Summary

If you suspect that gluten might be causing problems, remember — the most important step isn't starting a diet, but getting tested.

Only a proper diagnosis can help you address the issue correctly and avoid unnecessary restrictions.

👉 Would you like my help navigating a gluten-free diet — if it truly turns out to be needed? Feel free to reach out – together, we can prevent many common mistakes!