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What Is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease is triggered when people with a genetic predisposition eat gluten — a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The immune system reacts by damaging the lining of the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption. Common Symptoms of Celiac Disease Symptoms vary widely and can affect the digestive system or other parts of the body. Common symptoms include: Diarrhea or constipation Bloating and gas Weight loss or poor weight gain in children Fatigue Iron-deficiency anemia Skin rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis) Mouth ulcers Bone or joint pain Infertility or miscarriage Some people may be asymptomatic but still suffer intestinal damage. Causes and Risk Factors Celiac disease is caused by an immune response to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Key risk factors include: Family history (first-degree relatives have a 1 in 10 risk) Other autoimmune diseases, like type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease Down syndrome or Turner syndrome History of gastrointestinal infections Diagnosis of Celiac Disease Diagnosis typically includes: Blood Tests Tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG-IgA) Endomysial antibody (EMA) Genetic Testing HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes Small Intestine Biopsy Confirms intestinal damage and flattening of the villi Important: Do not start a gluten-free diet before testing, as it may affect accuracy. Treatment Options There is currently no cure for celiac disease, but it can be managed effectively by: ✅ Strict Gluten-Free Diet Avoid all sources of wheat, barley, and rye. Check food labels for hidden gluten. Use certified gluten-free products. ✅ Supplements Iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 may be needed if deficiencies are present. ✅ Regular Follow-Up Blood tests to monitor recovery Consult with a dietitian for nutrition guidance Foods to Avoid Bread, pasta, cakes, and cookies made with wheat Beer and malt beverages Sauces or gravies with wheat flour Processed foods unless labeled gluten-free 🥦 Safe Foods to Eat Fresh fruits and vegetables Meat, poultry, and fish (unbreaded) Rice, corn, quinoa, and certified gluten-free oats Legumes and nuts 🧠 Living with Celiac Disease Celiac disease requires lifelong vigilance. With the right support, people can lead healthy lives. Joining support groups and working with a healthcare team can help manage the condition effectively. 📌 Key Takeaways Celiac disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. Symptoms can be digestive or non-digestive. Diagnosis involves blood tests and intestinal biopsy. A strict gluten-free diet is the only treatment. Early diagnosis and diet management prevent long-term complications. Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This condition affects millions globally and can develop at any age. It’s not just a food sensitivity — it’s a lifelong medical condition requiring serious attention. Get Expert Medical Advice for Free Ask your health questions anonymously Receive answers from verified doctors Trusted, confidential, and accurate medical guidance Call Us Ask any Question