Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder caused by the consumption of the protein gluten. It is commonly found in bread, pasta, cookies, and crusts of pizza. Other foods made from wheat, barley, and rye, too, contain this protein.

Individuals affected with Celiac disease should not eat foods containing gluten. If they do, an immune reaction takes place in the small intestine. This causes damage to the surface of the intestine. Thus, all the nutrients are not absorbed efficiently.

The hampered absorption of nutrients is also referred to as malabsorption. It can cause vitamin deficiencies, affecting the brain, peripheral nervous system, bones, liver, and other vital organs. These deficiencies can cause stunted growth and other disorders in children.

Celiac disease cannot be treated. With appropriate modifications in the diet, it can only be efficiently managed.

Some of the common symptoms of Celiac disease include:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach ache
• Bloating

Some individuals affected by the disease show no gastrointestinal symptoms. In some cases, the symptoms of Celiac disease are similar to those of other disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastric ulcers, Crohn’s disease, anemia, and nervous system disorders.

Celiac disease may manifest itself in the following ways:

• Depression
• Anemia
• Abdominal pain
• Pain in the joints
• Cramping of muscles
• Skin disorders
• Sore throat
• Bone disorders
• Tingling sensation in the legs

Some of the symptoms caused by malabsorption are mentioned below:

• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Stomach upset
• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Gray-colored stools
• Stunted growth
• Anemia
• Osteoporosis

If you witness any symptoms related to the disease, consult your doctor immediately. If some family member is affected, it is good to go in for a test for yourself. The symptoms are common across other disorders. Therefore, consult your doctor before you switch to a gluten-free diet.

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