Patient Education
What is celiac disease?
It is an immune-mediated condition that occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten (found in wheat, barley, oat, rye) leads to small intestinal mucosal damage. On exposure to gluten, there is an abnormal immune response causing an inflammatory reaction in the small intestine leading to malabsorption of various nutrients.
What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
Poor appetite, weight loss, abdominal distension/pain, vomiting/flatulence/diarrhea, bloating, not gaining weight and height, mouth ulcers, pale and foul-smelling stools.
How is celiac disease diagnosed?
Blood tests for antibodies and genetic testing are helpful in diagnosing this disease. Small intestinal biopsies are required to confirm it and to know the progression of the disease.
How is celiac disease treated?
A gluten-free diet is the main therapy for celiac disease. All the food items containing gluten such as products made of wheat, barley, rye, oats are to be avoided completely. This is a lifelong disease; hence continuous reinforcement and counseling for adherence to a gluten-free diet is important. Strict adherence to the diet helps the intestine to heal leading to the resolution of symptoms in most cases.