Gluten sensitivity is a condition in which the body reacts negatively to gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—even though tests for celiac disease or wheat allergy may come back negative. People with this condition often experience digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, or abdominal pain, as well as non-digestive symptoms, like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, or skin irritation, after eating gluten-containing foods. Unlike celiac disease, gluten sensitivity does not cause long-term damage to the small intestine, but the symptoms can still be disruptive and significantly affect quality of life. Because its signs overlap with other conditions, a careful evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and management.
In recent years, there have been numerous media reports on gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. Celiac disease is a serious digestive condition in which the consumption of the protein gluten, commonly found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune reaction in the small intestine. This immune reaction can cause damage to the small intestines, leading to malabsorption problems and vitamin deficiencies, which can be particularly detrimental to children, who require proper nutrition for growth and development.
For some, there are no typical signs and symptoms of celiac disease, but others have reported intermittent diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, and general weakness. There are blood tests available that can measure levels of specific antibodies. However, in almost every case, the patient will need to be evaluated by a gastroenterologist for a biopsy of the small intestine tissue to confirm the diagnosis. Finding an explanation for recurrent symptoms may not be as easy.
Although it may be difficult, the treatment of choice after a definitive diagnosis of gluten sensitivity is to remove gluten from the diet. Fortunately, community awareness, coupled with the growing market for gluten-free foods, has made dietary avoidance a somewhat easier task. However, in some cases, it may be beneficial to consult with a dietician for additional education, support, and counseling.
As with celiac disease, the recommended treatment is a gluten-free diet. However, before significantly altering your lifestyle, it is often beneficial to consult with an allergist to determine whether an allergy to wheat, barley, or rye (foods commonly associated with gluten) or another substance is present. From there, we will be able to provide you with additional information on how to deal with your condition.
Your visit begins with a one-on-one consultation, during which we take the time to understand your symptoms, health history, and daily routines. This personal approach ensures that every person receives care tailored to their unique experiences with gluten sensitivity.
Based on your consultation and evaluation, we provide recommendations that are designed to support your lifestyle. Together, we’ll discuss practical strategies for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
Gluten sensitivity can affect a wide range of people, regardless of age or background. While it is not the same as being allergic to wheat or having celiac disease, it can still cause significant discomfort and impact daily life. Both children and adults may experience symptoms, such as digestive issues, fatigue, or skin irritation, after eating foods that contain gluten. Because its effects vary from person to person, recognizing gluten sensitivity often requires careful attention to patterns in diet and health.
Seeking professional care for gluten sensitivity can provide both immediate relief and long-term health improvements. Our treatment offers:
Relief from persistent symptoms, such as bloating, fatigue, headaches, and digestive discomfort.
Clarity through evaluation and testing, helping you understand the root cause of your reactions.
Personalized guidance that fits your lifestyle, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Confidence in food choices, with a meal plan that is both enjoyable and safe.
Improved quality of life, as consistent symptom management allows for greater energy, focus, and daily comfort.
The cost of gluten sensitivity treatment in San Mateo can vary depending on the type of evaluation, testing, and personalized care plan that is most appropriate for your needs. Because each person’s symptoms and health goals are unique, treatment is tailored to ensure the best results rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. To learn more about what your care may involve and to get a clearer idea of potential costs, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at our clinic today.
At the Allergy & Asthma Clinic, we combine medical expertise with compassionate care to help patients effectively treat the challenges of gluten sensitivity. Our services are designed to support not only individuals but also parents seeking guidance for their children and families who want practical, sustainable solutions. With access to advanced testing, personalized nutrition planning, and ongoing support, we make it easier for every family to navigate gluten-free living. By choosing our clinic, you can feel confident that your care is guided by a team dedicated to improving health and quality of life.
Gluten sensitivity is not the same as a food allergy. Unlike a wheat allergy, which triggers an immediate immune response, gluten sensitivity causes a range of symptoms without showing up on traditional allergy tests. People with this condition may still react to foods made with flour, but the underlying mechanism differs from an allergic reaction.
Currently, there is no known cure for gluten sensitivity. However, ongoing research continues to explore the condition and its long-term effects. In the meantime, effective management strategies and tools, such as specialized testing and personalized nutrition plans, can help people minimize symptoms and lead healthier, more comfortable lives.
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First and foremost let me start by saying that these people did one hell of a job figuring out my sinus problems. When I first arrived there, I explained what was going on with me having excessive inflammation in the sinus…after they tested me, I found out that I was being exposed to dust mites which gave me a strong reaction. I followed the doctors guides lines in terms of cleaning my room and ever since, my sinus inflammation went away for good and now I have a healthy sinus. Thank you for everything.
My 10 year old son also has allergies and asthma and the staff makes sure that he feels well taken care of and comfortable, despite his having Autism and ADHD. He actually looks forward to going there with me, whether it be for my allergy shots or even when he needed allergy skin testing. When you’re a patient at the Allergy and Asthma clinic, you are treated as if you are the only patient they have, even when the waiting room is full. Dr. Engler has hired truly excellent staff, from the front desk people to the nurses and medical assistants. If you have allergies and/or asthma and you live on the Peninsula or even in the city, I highly recommend that you visit the Allergy and Asthma Clinic. They are truly amazing and will make you feel so much better.
