Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food. Celiac disease is caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. People with celiac disease must avoid gluten-containing foods. Left untreated, celiac disease can lead to serious health problems.
Causes
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. The exact cause of the celiac disease is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Celiac disease occurs when the body mistakenly attacks the small intestine after gluten is consumed. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and fatigue.
Symptoms
Symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly from person to person, but some common symptoms include gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache. Many people with celiac disease also have anemia due to the malabsorption of nutrients. Some people may also have skin problems such as dermatitis herpetiformis (a chronic itchy skin rash), and hair loss. In children, celiac disease may cause growth problems or delayed puberty.
Diagnosis
Celiac disease is a condition that affects the small intestine and is caused by an intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The only treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. Celiac disease can be diagnosed through a blood test and a biopsy of the small intestine. A blood test can determine if there are antibodies to gluten in your blood. A biopsy of the small intestine can determine if there is damage to the villi, which are tiny, finger-like projections that line the small intestine and help with the absorption of nutrients.
Prevention
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food. It is estimated that celiac disease affects one in every 133 people in the United States; however, this number may be higher because celiac disease can be difficult to diagnose. The only known cure for celiac disease is a lifelong gluten-free diet. But what is the prevention for celiac disease?
There is no known preventative measure for celiac disease, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. First, be aware of your family history and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, child, or sibling) with celiac disease, you are at increased risk of developing the condition yourself. Second, make sure you are getting enough iron, calcium, and vitamin D. These nutrients work with your body’s immune system to help your body fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. Third, avoid antibiotics that suppress the good bacteria in your gut.
Treatment
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can damage the small intestine. The only treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. A gluten-free diet means avoiding foods that contain wheat, barley, and rye. There are many gluten-free foods available today. A person with celiac disease should consult a registered dietitian to help create a healthy gluten-free diet. The dietitian will help you plan and prepare your meals. The dietitian can guide you through figuring out what to eat and what not to eat, as well as which foods are safe for you to eat. You should start by eating a gluten-free diet for life.
Conclusion
Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that can affect people of any age. The disease is caused by an intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with celiac disease eats food containing gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the small intestine. Symptoms of celiac disease can vary from person to person but may include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Left untreated, celiac disease can lead to serious health problems such as nutrient deficiencies, anemia, osteoporosis, and even cancer. Fortunately, there is a cure for celiac disease – a strict gluten-free diet.