What is coeliac disease, its causes, symptoms and treatment?

Dr.Navneet Gill, 0 mins read

Coeliac disease is a long-term medical condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with coeliac disease eats gluten, the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine. This damages the villi (tiny finger-like structures) that help absorb nutrients. Over time, this can lead to malnutrition and many health problems if not treated.

Causes of Coeliac Disease

The exact cause is not fully known, but it usually happens because of:

1. Genetics: It tends to run in families. If you have a parent or sibling with coeliac disease, your risk is higher.
2. Immune System Reaction: The body mistakenly attacks its own tissues when gluten is eaten.
3. Environmental Factors: Infections, stress, or early introduction of gluten in infancy may trigger the condition in genetically at-risk people.

Symptoms of Coeliac Disease

Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have severe digestive problems, while others may have mild or no stomach issues at all. Common symptoms include:

Digestive Symptoms

• Diarrhea or loose stools
  
• Bloating and gas
  
• Stomach pain or cramps
  
• Constipation
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  

General Symptoms:

• Tiredness or fatigue
  
• Weight loss
  
• Anemia (low blood count)
  
• Mouth ulcers
  
• Headaches
  

Symptoms in Children:

• Poor growth or delayed puberty
  
• Irritability
  
• Swollen belly
  

Long-Term Complications (if untreated)

• Weak bones (osteoporosis)
  
• Infertility
  
• Nerve problems (tingling, numbness)
  
• Increased risk of some cancers
  

Diagnosis

Doctors use several tests to confirm coeliac disease. First is blood tests that will help to check specific antibodies linked with gluten reaction. The scond thing which doctor suggest is endoscopy with biopsy in which a small sample from the small intestine is taken to see if there is damage or not.

Treatment

There is no cure of coeliac disease but it can be controlled completely by avoiding gluten for life.

1. Strict Gluten-Free Diet: Avoid wheat, barley, rye, and foods made from them (bread, pasta, cakes, biscuits, beer). Eat safe foods like rice, corn, potatoes, quinoa, and gluten-free oats.
2. Nutritional Support: Your doctors may prescribe supplements for vitamins and minerals (like iron, vitamin D, calcium, folic acid) if deficiencies are present.
3. Regular Monitoring: Blood tests and follow-ups are done to check if the intestine is healing.
4. Education & Support: You can consult a dietitian to manage your diet. Support groups can also make it easier to live with the condition.

Conclusion

Coeliac disease is a lifelong condition, but with the right diet and care, most people live a completely healthy and active life. The most important step is strictly avoiding gluten and following regular medical advice.