Fatigue is often listed as a symptom of celiac disease and is frequently reported by patients.
Fatigue (tiredness) is a state of physical or mental weariness. Tiredness can be both a physical and mental symptom. Chronic tiredness can be a symptom of many diseases or conditions, including autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease.
However, a 2018 study found that the link between fatigue and celiac disease has not been studied enough to be fully understood.
While fatigue may be a natural and transient part of life, in a chronic condition such as celiac disease, these symptoms are unrelieved by adequate sleep or rest. Once diagnosed, the fatigue suffered by celiac disease patients often improves with the gluten-free diet, though not always.
How Do People with Celiac Disease Experience Fatigue?
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When exposed to gluten my body wanted to go into hibernation. I just wanted to sleep. I would wake up and then fall back to sleep. Sleep, sleep all day, all night. My dog and husband would wake me up until I got up.
Rosemary
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Fatigue was the most debilitating symptom when my celiac disease was undiagnosed. I was in a constant state of not remembering what I was supposed to be doing because I was so exhausted. Typically a morning person, my husband would have trouble waking me before 10am.
Tiffani
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My 7 year old would love to be very active and at times she can but she also struggles often with fatigue that prevents her from consistently engaging in sports activities and connections with friends.
EF
How Do You Experience Fatigue?
At Beyond Celiac, we’re collecting real stories from people living with celiac disease to highlight how symptoms affect everyday life.
Your experience with fatigue can help others feel seen, understood, and empowered. We only share first names or initials to protect your privacy. These stories raise awareness and help others recognize how celiac disease shows up in different ways.
Use the form below to share your experiences with celiac disease and fatigue.