An Introduction to Celiac Disease

Answer 1

Celiac disease was once thought to be rare, but increased knowledge of the disease has led to a surge of new diagnoses in the last ten years. The disease effects nearly 3 million people in the United States and can be fatal if left untreated.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is a condition that effects the digestive system. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, which is a component of wheat, rye and barley. The disease causes the body to attack the intestinal lining, which is essential to the absorption of nutrients.

What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

The symptoms of celiac disease may vary from patient to patient and some only complain of vague discomfort. Common symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. These symptoms are similar to those experienced by patients diagnosed with a host of other diseases, including stomach ulcers, infections, anemia, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome.

Some patients may experience a skin rash, upset stomach, depression, anxiety, joint pain or oral sores. Other symptoms may include osteoporosis, tingling in the limbs, gray-colored stools, fatigue, stomach cramps or weight loss.

What Causes the Disease?

Doctors still are not sure what causes celiac disease, but they believe that it may be genetic. People with a close blood relative that have been diagnosed are more likely to develop the disease themselves. Other risk factors include having Down syndrome or colitis. People that have type 1 Diabetes or a thyroid disease are also at a greater risk for developing celiac disease.

How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing celiac disease can be difficult, as symptoms often mimic those of other disorders. Higher levels of certain antibodies can be detected through a blood test. These extra antibodies may be produced by the body in an effort to destroy gluten. Damage caused by celiac disease can be seen when doctors take a sample of the small intestine. Some doctors use camera pills to view the small intestine. This endoscopic procedure allows the doctor to examine the patient's intestinal tract by collecting hundreds or thousands of images.