Some of the most common sprue symptoms are related to digestive issues. This may include inability to digest certain food products, which manifests in diarrhea, nausea, or vomitting. Malabsorption of essential nutrients may cause deficiencies and fatigue. Rapid weight loss or loss of appetite may be other sprue symptoms as well.
Often known as celiac sprue, this is a condition in which the body cannot tolerate and properly absorb a protein substance known as gluten. Celiac sprue is actually an autoimmune disease that attacks the intestinal lining. Damage to the intestine caused by consumption of gluten, which is commonly found in wheat and other grain products, often occurs as a result.
One of the major sprue symptoms may be severe vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This maybe felt by extreme fatigue or lack of energy, anemia, dizziness, or fainting spells. This set of sprue symptoms may often be mistaken for other conditions due to the similarity in how it affects the body. This is why it is crucial to receive a proper diagnosis from a physician.
In this digestive syndrome, sprue symptoms may also include severe abdominal discomfort. Cramping and occasional bloody diarrhea may be symptoms as well. In some patients with sprue, alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation may occur. Excessive flatulence my also be present with sprue. Occasionally, heartburn may be another symptom.
Due to the nutritional deficiencies sprue can produce, other symptoms may include dull appearance in the skin or hair. Nails may be brittle and weakened. Skin irritations or rashes may be less common sprue symptoms. In severe cases that go undiagnosed, brittle bones can eventually occur.
Psychological disturbances may be another set of sprue symptoms. Mood swings and depression may occur in certain patients affected by this condition. Nervousness and restlessness are symptoms that some patients suffer from as well. Some patients with sprue suffer from anxiety and chronic insomnia.
Although less common, celiac sprue may also cause fertility issues. This may occur in both men and women. Women may suffer from irregular or skipped periods, or in some cases have difficulty conceiving.
When infants are affected by celiac sprue, there may be a significant delay in growth. Inability to keep food down and bouts of diarrhea may occur. The infant may not maintain proper weight or may lose weight steadily. In some cases, infants with sprue may exhibit symptoms that are often mistaken for colic.
