Celiac Disease
What is Celiac Disease?
It is an autoimmune illness that runs in families. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in response to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley.
The immune reaction of individuals with Celiac Disease to gluten in the diet sets off a chain of inflammation that can affect their:
- Digestive Tract
- Skin
- Nervous System (Cerebellum)
Who is at risk of getting Celiac?
Celiac Disease runs in families, as do other autoimmune illnesses. If you have a 1st-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) who has Celiac Disease, your chance of developing it is 1 in 10.
Celiac Disease can start at any age in response to a diet that is not gluten-free. Undiagnosed Celiac Disease can lead to multiple health problems for both children and adults.
Celiac Disease runs in families, as do other autoimmune illnesses. If you have a 1st-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) who has Celiac, your chance of developing it is 1 in 10.
What are the symptoms of Celiac Disease?
The most common symptoms of Celiac Disease include:
- Digestive symptoms: bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation.
- Weight loss
- Malnutrition
- Chronic fatigue
- Anxiety or depression
- Itchy skin rash
- Neurological symptoms
How can I find out if I have Celiac Disease?
A functional medicine consultation will examine your health history and family history for signs and symptoms that point to Celiac Disease.
Blood testing by a functional medicine doctor to detect the presence of antibodies to the enzymes that break down gluten is often the first step toward diagnosing Celiac Disease. In some cases, additional testing may be necessary.
Concerned you might have Celiac Disease? Dr. Sarah Williams, here in Concord, MA, can help.
References
Al-Toma A, Volta U, Auricchio R, et al. European Society for the Study of Coeliac Disease (ESsCD) guideline for coeliac disease and other gluten-related disorders. United European Gastroenterol Journal. 2019;7(5):583-613.
Celiac.org