What You Need to Know About Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine in genetically predisposed individuals. It is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. This can result in various symptoms and long-term complications if not properly managed.
Symptoms
The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely and may affect different systems of the body. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, and bloating. However, some individuals may experience atypical symptoms such as joint pain, infertility, headaches, or skin rashes. Additionally, celiac disease can present with no apparent symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing celiac disease involves a combination of clinical evaluation, serological tests, and confirmatory procedures. Blood tests, such as anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA), are commonly used to screen for celiac disease. If these tests are positive, a small intestinal biopsy is typically performed to confirm the diagnosis. During the biopsy, a gastroenterologist obtains small tissue samples from the lining of the small intestine to assess for characteristic changes, including villous atrophy.
It is crucial for individuals suspected of having celiac disease not to self-initiate a gluten-free diet before diagnosis, as this can interfere with the accuracy of the tests.
Treatment
The cornerstone of celiac disease management is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This involves avoiding all sources of gluten, including wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. A gluten-free diet allows the intestinal lining to heal, alleviates symptoms, and prevents long-term complications.
In addition to dietary modifications, individuals with celiac disease may require nutritional supplementation. Malabsorption of nutrients is common in untreated celiac disease, and deficiencies in iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other vitamins and minerals may occur. Therefore, healthcare providers may recommend supplements to address these deficiencies.
Regular follow-up with an allergist like Dr. Arthur Lubitz is essential for individuals with celiac disease to monitor their nutritional status, assess the effectiveness of the gluten-free diet, and address any emerging concerns.
Complications and Long-Term Management
While a gluten-free diet is effective in managing celiac disease, individuals must remain vigilant to avoid accidental gluten exposure. Cross-contamination can occur in shared kitchen spaces, restaurants, and even through certain medications and non-food products.
Untreated or poorly managed celiac disease can lead to complications such as osteoporosis, infertility, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Therefore, long-term management involves not only adherence to a gluten-free diet but also regular medical monitoring to address any emerging issues and ensure overall well-being.
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