How Do You Know If You Have Celiac Disease ?

Celiac disease refers to the intolerance that some people have for gluten, a protein found in the grains used to make bread, pasta and a variety of other foods. This condition is also sometimes referred to as gluten intolerance. People with celiac disease sustain damage to the small intestine whenever gluten-rich foods are eaten, rendering them unable to absorb nutrients such as vitamins A, B12, D, E and iron.

It is estimated that as many as 3 million Americans live with celiac disease and even more cases go undiagnosed each year. In untreated cases of the disease, people who continue to consume foods with gluten often experience unexplained weight loss, iron deficient anemia, an increased risk of lymphoma and even osteoporosis, as their body is deprived of the nutrients that it needs to ward off these issues. Other symptoms include:

• Pain in the bones
• Diarrhea
• Bloating in the abdomen
• Sever skin rashes

The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown, but research does indicate that hereditary factors may play a role in its development as people with the disease often have one or more family members who have it as well. In other cases, infections can trigger changes to the immune system, which sometimes contributes to celiac disease and some women tend to develop it during pregnancy.

It is important to recognize the symptoms of celiac disease early, as it wreaks havoc on the small intestine if left untreated and can lead to more serious conditions such as:

• Arthritis
• Stomach cancer
• Osteoporosis
• Anemia
• Poor growth and physical development (in children)

The process of diagnosing celiac disease involves a blood test to determine whether antibodies are present. A scope may also be inserted in the rectum to allow doctors to take a closer look at the small intestine. If there is cause for concern, a doctor may also take a tissue sample in order to perform a biopsy for further assessment. It is important that a thorough examination is done as celiac is sometimes misdiagnosed as being another type of food intolerance or is diagnosed as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). The longer a proper diagnosis is delayed, the longer it takes to correctly treat celiac and, in the meantime, more damage is being done. After a correct diagnosis has been made, doctors will normally perform other tests to determine whether the person is anemic or has developed osteoporosis as a side effect of celiac.

Treatment for celiac disease involves avoiding all foods with gluten in them. It is very important, however, that these foods are not avoided until a diagnosis is made. Because the symptoms of celiac disease are closely related to diseases affecting the bowel, removing gluten from the diet too early may cause symptoms to decrease and, thus, increase the chances of a misdiagnosis. Treatment often also consists of supplements to add vitamins to the diet that the body has missed because of the gluten intolerance.

Although celiac disease is very damaging to the small intestine, if it is treated early enough, with a structured diet plan and vitamin supplementation, its progressive destruction can be stopped and people can live healthy lives. Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms of celiac disease, particularly after consuming breads, pasta, beer, crackers or other foods high in gluten, is advised to consult a doctor.