Diseases and Conditions

The Common Causes of Stomach Pain

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Gluten Intolerance

Gluten is a kind of protein that is found in grains like wheat, barely, and rye. Gluten sensitivity is not the same as an allergy to gluten which causes celiac disease. With celiac disease, anytime the body consumes gluten, it will react poorly and damage the small intestine, stopping the absorption of gluten into the body. Even a small amount of gluten, such as those present in some toothpastes, can cause extreme pain for those with celiac disease.

That said, some people are sensitive to gluten and do not have the allergy. Instead, the intolerance leads to cramping, bloating, diarrhea or constipation, and other symptoms because the body simply cannot process the gluten, much like lactose intolerance.