Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small intestine, damaging the villi, small finger-like projections that line the small intestine and promote nutrient absorption.

Celiac disease can develop at any age after people start eating foods or medicines that contain gluten. Left untreated, celiac disease can lead to additional serious health problems, including malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions, and in rare cases, cancer. 

Symptoms can vary widely and may include digestive problems (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation), fatigue, weight loss, anemia, and more. Some people with celiac disease may have no symptoms at all.

Management 

• Strict gluten-free diet:
  • Eliminate all sources of gluten, including hidden sources in processed foods and medications
  • Work with a registered dietitian to ensure a balanced, nutritious diet
• Nutritional supplementation:
  • May be necessary to correct deficiencies, especially in newly diagnosed patients
  • Common supplements include iron, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins
• Regular medical follow-ups: To monitor healing and manage any complications
• Bone density scans: To check for osteoporosis, which is common in celiac disease
• Medications: If your small intestine is severely damaged or you have refractory celiac disease, steroids may be recommended to control inflammation. Steroids can ease severe symptoms of celiac disease while the intestine heals.Other drugs, such as azathioprine or budesonide, might be used.

Prevention 
While celiac disease cannot be prevented, as it's an autoimmune disorder with a genetic component, there are strategies to prevent complications and manage the condition effectively:

• Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet: This is the only effective treatment for celiac disease
• Regular medical check-ups: To monitor healing and catch any complications early
• Educate family members: First-degree relatives should be screened for celiac disease
• Be vigilant about cross-contamination: Use separate cooking utensils and preparation areas for gluten-free foods
• Read labels carefully: Gluten can be hidden in many processed foods and even some medications
• Plan when eating out: Call restaurants in advance to discuss gluten-free options

Maintain overall health: Regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can support overall well-being