Celiac disease

Celiac Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Symptoms

Celiac disease can present with a wide range of symptoms. The most common include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, weight loss, and fatigue. However, some individuals with celiac disease may not have any symptoms at all.

Causes

Celiac disease is caused by an immune response to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. The exact cause of this immune response is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of celiac disease typically involves a combination of blood tests and an endoscopy to examine the small intestine and take a biopsy. The blood tests look for specific antibodies that are typically elevated in individuals with celiac disease.

Treatment

The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This involves avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley, and rye. In some cases, additional treatment may be needed to manage symptoms or complications.

Epidemiology

Celiac disease affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. It is more common in individuals of European descent, but can affect individuals of any ethnicity.

See also

• Gluten-free diet
• Autoimmune disorder
• Small intestine