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Celiac Disease

Diseases and Conditions Celiac Disease
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Celiac disease, also known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is a chronic immune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten. Gluten is a protein found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system reacts abnormally, leading to damage in the small intestine. This damage prevents proper nutrient absorption, resulting in a condition called malabsorption. If left untreated, celiac disease can cause serious complications. Although there is no definitive cure, managing symptoms involves adhering to a strict gluten-free diet.

Types of Celiac Disease

  1. Classic Celiac Disease:

    • Presents with typical gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
    • May lead to dehydration, dizziness, and vitamin/mineral deficiencies.
    • Diagnosed through positive blood antibody and endoscopy (biopsy) results.
    • Requires a lifelong gluten-free diet.

  2. Atypical Celiac Disease:

    • Lacks GI symptoms but may manifest other health issues such as autoimmune thyroid problems, skin rashes, bleeding, or nerve damage (ataxia).
    • Often undiagnosed for years, requiring persistence in seeking proper tests.
    • Treatment involves a gluten-free diet.

  3. Asymptomatic Celiac Disease (Silent Celiac Disease):

    • Few or no symptoms, but still affects various body parts.
    • Often discovered incidentally during other medical tests.
    • May exhibit abnormal liver tests, low iron/B12 levels, or villous atrophy in the small intestines.

Causes of Celiac Disease

  • Autoimmune Reaction: The body’s extreme response to gluten-containing foods triggers celiac disease.
  • Genetic Factors: Almost all individuals (95%) with celiac disease have HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 variants of human leukocyte antigens.
  • Triggers: Pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, or viral infections can sometimes activate celiac disease.

Risk Factors of Celiac Disease

  • Family history of celiac disease
  • Down syndrome or Turner syndrome
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Autoimmune thyroid disease
  • Addison’s disease

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

1. Digestive Symptoms (Adults): Diarrhea Fatigue Weight loss Bloating and gas Abdominal pain Nausea and vomiting Constipation
2. Non-Digestive Symptoms (Adults): Anemia (iron deficiency) Osteoporosis or osteomalacia (bone issues) Dermatitis herpetiformis (itchy skin rash) Mouth ulcers Headaches and fatigue Nervous system issues (numbness, tingling, cognitive impairment) Joint pain Reduced spleen function Elevated liver enzymes

Preventions of Celiac Disease

While celiac disease cannot be prevented, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

  • Avoiding Gluten: Strictly adhere to a gluten-free diet.
  • Regular Check-ups: Regularly visit your doctor for monitoring and follow-up.
  • Genetic Testing: If you have a family history of celiac disease, consider genetic testing.

Diagnosis of Celiac Disease

  • Blood Test: Elevated celiac disease antibodies indicate the condition.
  • Genetic Test: Checks for HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 variants.
  • Biopsy: Analyzes a sample of the small intestine lining.

Treatment for Celiac Disease

  • Strict Gluten-Free Diet: Lifelong adherence is essential.
  • Self-Care: Lactose-free diet, multivitamins, calcium, and folic acid.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience persistent symptoms such as digestive issues, fatigue, skin rashes, or unexplained weight loss, consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications and improve overall well-being.