Celiac Disease in Adults 

While many adults won't be affected by symptoms, signs of this chronic illness may prevent themselves. In fact, the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center notes that adults are less likely to have digestive-related symptoms of the disorder. Only one-third of adults with celiac disease experience diarrhea related to the condition. Iron deficiency anemia that is unresponsive to iron therapy is the most common sign of celiac disease in adults. But again, some sufferers are asymptomatic. 

When celiac disease causes symptoms, it is often because of a compromised intestinal tract and the inability to absorb essential nutrients properly, which can cause malnutrition or weight loss. In turn, malnutrition can lead to iron deficiency. 

Other side effects of celiac disease related to malnutrition or weight loss might include: 

• osteoporosis;
• fatigue
• infertility;
• miscarriage;
• mouth ulcers; or
• tingling sensation in hands or feet.