Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by damage of the small intestine after ingesting gluten, a protein present in wheat plants and other grains. The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates that over 3 million Americans are currently affected by CD and approximately 60-70 percent of Americans with CD are currently suffering without a proper diagnosis. While there is no cure for celiac disease, following a medically tailored diet can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?
Symptoms of celiac disease differ broadly from patient to patient. Some with CD remain asymptomatic for many years as the disease lies dormant until triggered later in life. For others, symptoms of CD appear similar to many other gastrointestinal symptoms, including:
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
Symptoms of CD can also mimic symptoms of other gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can result in further delayed diagnosis.
How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?
Like many medical conditions, the diagnosis process for celiac disease begins with a detailed health history with a trusted health care provider. If there is reasonable suspicion of the condition – based on various factors including genetics, family history, symptoms, and more – additional testing may be ordered.
Since CD is an autoimmune disorder, uncovering the condition typically starts with a series of blood tests that examine your antibody levels. While not a definitive tool for diagnosis, if your blood shows that the disease has disrupted these antibodies, it’s a good indication that you may have CD. Once indicated, your physician will likely perform a duodenal biopsy which is when they take a biopsy of the small intestine (removing a small piece of tissue) to learn if the area has undergone any damage.
How is Celiac Disease Treated?
While a cure for celiac disease remains unknown, there are interventional treatments that can reduce damage done to the small intestine. The best treatment for celiac disease involves removing all gluten from the diet. A life-long commitment to a gluten-free diet will likely prevent further damage to the lining of your intestines, causing a reduction of your symptoms.
For some patients, a gluten-free diet alone may not be enough. Individuals diagnosed with Nonresponsive Celiac Disease (NRCD), a rare condition in which those who abstain from gluten in their diet experience a recurrence of celiac-related symptoms despite strict adherence to a gluten-free diet, may still require a more tailored treatment plan from a gastroenterologist. Fortunately, cases of NRCD are very rare and most patients with CD can live a fulfilling life by following a gluten-free diet.
Where Can I Get Treatment for Celiac Disease?
If you suspect you may have celiac disease, don’t delay in talking to a trusted TPMG healthcare provider about your concerns. Symptoms of celiac disease will not get better on their own, establishing a diagnosis and making appropriate interventions guided by your healthcare provider is crucial for maintaining your quality of life. For your convenience, TPMG offers gastroenterology care in Newport News and Williamsburg, VA.
