Celiac Rash? **photo's included**

[scanlanmd]

Hello all, 

In having to engage in social distancing, I stocked up on pastas and breads, something I do not particularly engage in all that often under normal circumstances. In eating more than usual amounts, this rash has come back. This rash first made an appearance almost 8 years ago and comes and goes. I do experience other GI disturbances, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, etc. 

 

This is the first time I have had the rash appear in a while, I am curious if any of you have experienced something similar and if this could be conducive to celiac disease. The second photo is after a few days of healing. 

 

Thank you for your thoughts!

 

[Scott Adams]

I'm not sure if you have access to seeing a dermatologist, but the best way to tell if it is dermatitis herpetiformis, which is the skin condition associated with celiac disease, would be to have a biopsy on one of the blisters. The second best way to tell would be a celiac disease blood screening, which would at least alert you to an issue with gliadin/gluten.

If you can't do either of the above, we can only offer suggestions. This type of rash would not be typical of DH, as DH normally appears on elbows and other areas. Have you tried using no deodorant, or switching to all natural type deodorants to see if this has any effect? Also, have you tried not shaving under your arms?

[cyclinglady]

Hi!  Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH) is  celiac disease which manifests in the skin.  It looks like so many rashes, that it must be skin biopsied for a diagnosis or be diagnosed with celiac disease which starts with a blood test.  

While I do not have celiac disease, I know that DH is usually bilateral (both sides of the body).  It is insanely itchy.    Look through the DH section of the forum for tips and more information.  Other rashes can be attributed to celiac disease like eczema.  Celiac Disease is under the umbrella of hypersensitivity (four types) which can all be linked.  You might research that as well.  

Stress can do funny things to your body.  So can things in your diet beyond gluten.   When I was diagnosed, I was anemic.  My doctor ran a celiac panel.  I was shocked that I had celiac disease as I consumed bread/gluten without any GI symptoms!  

During this crisis, you might consider going gluten free, if you seriously suspect celiac disease.  Rice is a good replacement for breads and pasta and can last over a decade!  

Stay safe!  

Edited April 2, 2020 by cyclinglady