Celiac disease is when an individual’s body is not in sync with gluten, meaning it reacts to the body. Gluten is a protein found in cereals like wheat, rye and barley. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten.
Symptoms in children might differ from the signs and symptoms of adults.
Symptoms as seen in adults:
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Bloating and gas
- Mouth ulcers
- Pain in joints
- Anaemia (iron deficiency)
- Headaches
- Blistery skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Symptoms as seen in children:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Swollen stomach
- Constipation
- Gas
Though the exact cause of the celiac disease is unknown, some factors may have triggered the disease. When the immune system overreacts to gluten, it damages the intestines. Below are some of the possible causes:
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Surgery
- Pregnancy
- Down syndrome
- Diabetes
- Addison’s disease
- History of Celiac disease in the family
Many are unaware of celiac disease and if they have it or not. Therefore, it’s critical to have celiac disease tested. The following are some of the tests that doctors recommend.
- Serology testing
- Genetic testing
- Capsule endoscopy
- Endoscopy
Your healthcare provider will suggest and also help prepare a diet chart to include alternatives for gluten-filled food. Below is the treatment offered to celiac patients.
- Modified food items
- Nutritional supplements
- Essential vitamin & mineral supplements
- Prescribed & over-the-counter medications
