Celiac disease is a disorder that affects the digestive system. It results due to an autoimmune reaction to gluten. Gluten is a protein that is found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. It may also be found in oats produced at processing plants as it can get mixed with other grains. Your sensitivity to gluten can vary. Some people may have a mild sensitivity to this protein because their body is unable to digest or break it down. In other cases, gluten intolerance can result due to an autoimmune disorder. This is known as Celiac disease.
Celiac disease is characterized by an immune reaction to gluten that leads to the production of toxins. These toxins damage the villi of your small intestines. A villus is a small, finger-like protrusion in your small intestine. When the villi get destroyed, your body cannot absorb nutrients. This can result in malnutrition. It can also cause other complications, such as permanent damage to your small intestines. Read on as we discuss the symptoms and treatment of celiac disease.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
Symptoms of celiac disease can vary among adults and children. A child who has celiac disease will feel exhausted and irritable. They may also exhibit the following symptoms:
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain and abdominal bloating
- Vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Pale and malodorous stool
In the case of adults, celiac disease is known to affect other areas of the body, as well. An adult suffering from this disorder can experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Stiffness and pain in joints
- Weak and brittle bones
- Seizures
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Skin disorders such as Dermatitis herpetiformis
- Dental problems due to loss of tooth enamel
- Numbness or tingling sensations in hands and feet
- Irregularities in menstruation cycles
- Infertility
- Miscarriage
Diagnosis and Treatment of Celiac Disease
Your doctor will conduct a physical examination to diagnose celiac disease. You may also be required to get some blood tests such as a complete blood cell count test, cholesterol test, liver function test, serum albumin test, etc. These tests are used to detect antibody levels. An individual suffering from celiac disease tends to have elevated levels of anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies and antiendomysium antibodies.
Treatment of celiac disease involves removing gluten from your diet. This allows your small intestines to heal so they can absorb nutrients again. You must consult with a physician and follow a diet plan that helps you avoid gluten without losing out on essential nutrients.
Let’s Sum It Up
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause damage to your small intestines. This autoimmune disorder results due to the presence of gluten in your diet. According to NIDDK, 1 in 141 people in the USA experience the symptoms of celiac disease. If left untreated, celiac disease can have severe consequences and can also cause intestinal damage.
If you require further advice on the symptoms and treatment of celiac disease, we suggest you book an appointment with a physician at Health One Family Medicine.
Visit https://www.healthonemedicine.com or call 469-262-5762 for more information.