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Celiac disease damages the small intestine and prevents nutrient absorption due to an autoimmune response to gluten. Symptoms include digestive disorders, dermatitis, fatigue, and joint pain. Diagnosis involves upper endoscopy and serologic screening. A gluten-free diet is the only treatment available.
Celiac disease is a digestive condition in which the lining of the small intestine is damaged or destroyed and cannot normally absorb nutrients into the bloodstream. This damage is produced by an autoimmune response to the consumption of certain types of wheat proteins called gluten. Found primarily in breads, pastas and cereals, gluten is also an ingredient in many processed foods, such as soy sauce, canned soups and ketchups. While most alcoholic beverages are gluten-free, beer should be avoided.
While some people with celiac disease may be symptom-free, most suffer from some type of digestive disorder, such as frequent indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome. Because the intestines can’t process food properly, weight loss and nutrient deficiencies are common. Another clear sign of this disease is dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin, and many patients suffer from fatigue and joint pain. New studies have revealed a strong link between the condition and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Calcium malabsorption also leads to dental problems, including tooth decay and other tooth enamel problems.
There are essentially two tests used to diagnose celiac disease. The most common is an upper endoscopy, in which a plastic tube is inserted into the esophagus to take still photographs of the upper gastrointestinal tract. This may also include a biopsy of the distal duodenum.
The second standard test is a serologic screen, consisting of four tests looking for IgA antibodies, the presence of which indicates the disease. Medical professionals may recommend other tests, such as a complete blood count or liver enzyme count, but the two mentioned above are the standard rule for diagnosis. Due to its similarity to other disorders, this condition is often misdiagnosed.
There is no known direct cause for celiac disease, although scientists estimate that most patients have a genetic susceptibility to the disease. The trigger could be anything from an environmental agent, to a virus, to early exposure to gluten. In fact, studies show that children exposed to gluten early, before the intestinal barrier is fully developed, have a higher risk of developing the condition later in life.
Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is the only treatment available for celiac disease. Since there is no cure available, dietary changes must be permanent. However, a gluten-free diet will lead to improvements in just a few weeks, and if the diet is maintained, your gut will be completely healed in about three months.
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