Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

People with celiac disease cannot digest gluten properly, and it causes inflammation in the small intestine, leading to damage in the lining of the intestine, and trouble absorbing nutrients from food.

What Causes Celiac Disease?

Although the cause of celiac disease is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The disease tends to run in families and is more common in people with other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

It is important to note that celiac disease is not the same as a food allergy or intolerance.

While an allergy or intolerance may cause similar symptoms, such as stomach pain, diarrhea, and bloating, celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause long-term damage to the intestine if left untreated.

What Are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease can affect people differently, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms include:.

Abdominal pain and bloating
Diarrhea or constipation
Weight loss or weight gain
Fatigue
Anemia
Depression and anxiety
Joint pain
Delayed growth and development in children
Short stature

Celiac disease can also cause dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash that is itchy and blistering. This rash can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on the elbows, knees, and buttocks.

How Is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?

If a doctor suspects celiac disease, they will order blood tests to check for certain antibodies that are present in people with the disease.

If the blood tests are positive, a doctor may recommend a biopsy of the small intestine to confirm the diagnosis.

The biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lining of the small intestine and examining it under a microscope. If the biopsy shows damage to the lining, it confirms the diagnosis of celiac disease.

What Is the Treatment for Celiac Disease?

The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This involves avoiding all foods that contain gluten, including bread, pasta, cereal, and many processed foods.

It is important for people with celiac disease to read labels carefully and look for foods that are labeled “gluten-free.”.

Some people with celiac disease may also need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to make up for any deficiencies in their diet. People with severe damage to their intestines may need to receive nutrients through an IV.

What Happens if Celiac Disease Goes Untreated?

If celiac disease goes untreated, it can lead to a number of serious complications, including:.

Osteoporosis
Infertility or miscarriage
Liver disease
Lymphoma

In addition, people with celiac disease may be at greater risk for developing other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.

Conclusion

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Common symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea or constipation, and weight loss or gain. Diagnosis is made through blood tests and a biopsy of the small intestine. The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet.

Untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications, including osteoporosis, infertility, and liver disease.