Can Celiac flares affect my eyes?

[jeriM]

It seems like eye inflammation comes at the same time as digestive upset.  My system still hasn't completely settled despite adhering to a strict diet, and eye inflammation seems to coincide with celiac attacks. 

[Scott Adams]

It’s absolutely possible for celiac flares to affect your eyes—many people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity report eye inflammation (like uveitis or dry eyes) during systemic reactions. Since celiac is an autoimmune condition, the inflammation isn’t limited to just your gut; it can trigger immune responses elsewhere, including the eyes. The fact that your symptoms coincide suggests a clear connection, even if your diet has been strict. Cross-contamination or hidden gluten could still be playing a role, or it might be worth exploring other autoimmune triggers (like vitamin deficiencies or coexisting conditions). Have you talked to your doctor about testing for inflammation markers or seeing an ophthalmologist? It’s frustrating when symptoms persist despite your best efforts, but you’re not imagining this—research and patient accounts back it up.

Here is a recent scientific paper on this:

https://www.cureus.com/articles/358124-ocular-insights-exploring-uveitis-as-a-manifestation-of-celiac-disease#!/

[jeriM]

Thank you so much.  It helps just knowing there is a connection and it's not my imagination.    I am seeking help from a nutritionist and will talk to my PC about inflammation marker testing - thank you.  During one flare I went to see an ophthalmologist because my symptoms were so severe.  He didn't draw any connection but just said that my eyes were extremely dry and recommended drops, which I use.  However, when a flare develops, the drops are only marginally effective.  

I think I've eliminated one source of contamination.  We had 20 chickens until less than a month ago, when we sold that property.   Although I scrubbed after feeding and taking care of the chickens, the feed is mostly wheat and I'm sure I had to be inhaling wheat 'dust' every day.   I'm feeling like there will be improvement.  

Thank you so much for your reply, the help and suggestions. 

[Scott Adams]

I wish I had known you during the egg shortage! Are you living in a mansion now from the eggs sales?😉

[jeriM]

Ah, Scott,   

Ha ha!  Thats almost a reasonable assumption given the prices during the shortage.  However, our eggs?  We always gave them away to friends and seniors we know, so no mansion here.  Now we have to buy eggs like everyone else.   The house we found, we loved so much that it made it worth it for us to give up the chickens.  A hard decision.   

[knitty kitty]

Hi, @jeriM,

I can attest to Celiac and eye problems being connected!  There's a higher rate of Sjogren's Syndrome in Celiac people than in those without celiac disease. 

Sjogren's Syndrome causes dry eyes and can even lead to dry mouth which can alter taste and smell.  Have your doctor check for Sjogren's.  Correct low Vitamin D, which regulates the immune system.  Talk to your nutritionist about including in your diet plenty of Omega Three's. Omega Three's help keep our eyes moist and lubricated.  You know how oil floats on water, same thing with our eyes!  Fun fact:  Our eyes are derived from the same sort of tissues as our digestive tract in a developing fetus.

Oh, check your thyroid function, too.  Hashimoto's thyroiditis frequently occurs with Sjogren's. Autoimmune diseases tend to cluster in celiac disease.  I also have Diabetes type two.  

Discuss with your nutritionist the benefits of a low histamine diet.  A low histamine diet can help reduce inflammation and gets those inflammation markers down.  I like the Autoimmune Protocol Diet, a Paleo diet that promotes intestinal health.

Best wishes!  Keep us posted on your progress!

[jeriM]

Thank you Knitty Kitty,  

I have all the information for the nutritionist sitting in front of me, but I've procrastinated.   Between you and Scott - I'll contact him tomorrow and get started on a better me.   Thank you both for all the support and information.