Introduction: Celiac disease is a digestive disorder associated with the immune system that affects individuals throughout their lives. While it can manifest at any age, it is more commonly observed during early childhood. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten (a protein found in grains), it triggers an inflammatory reaction that damages the small intestine. Gluten is present in wheat, rye, and barley, and individuals with celiac disease must avoid consuming these grains.
Prevalence and Symptoms: In recent years, the perception of celiac disease has shifted from being a rare childhood disorder to a common condition affecting approximately 1 in 133 people. A wide range of symptoms can occur in individuals with celiac disease, affecting not only the digestive system but also other organs in the body.
Digestive Symptoms: Symptoms related to the digestive system are particularly common in infants and young children and can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal bloating
- Chronic diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Weight loss
Potential Consequences and Effects: Undiagnosed celiac disease in children can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, which can result in various problems, such as:
- Poor growth in infants
- Short stature
- Delayed puberty
Non-Digestive Symptoms: Additional symptoms not directly related to the digestive system in individuals with celiac disease may include:
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Reduced bone mineralization
- Dental enamel defects
- Reduced fertility or recurrent miscarriages
- Recurring mouth sores
- Dermatitis herpetiformis (a persistent skin rash)
- Mild liver inflammation (detected through blood tests)
- Colon cancer (only in a small percentage of cases after years of gluten consumption; a gluten-free diet eliminates this risk)
Genetic and Familial Factors: Individuals with a first-degree family member who has celiac disease are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Clinical suspicion of celiac disease or a family history should prompt blood tests for markers of the disease. High levels of celiac disease-related antibodies (TTGA, DGP, AEM) could indicate the presence of the disease.
Management and Treatment: The only treatment for celiac disease is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet, which involves avoiding foods containing wheat, rye, and barley. Many patients receive dietary guidance from dietitians and participate in support groups for direction and information. A gluten-free diet can significantly alleviate symptoms and complications and should be maintained rigorously. After diagnosis and treatment, regular follow-up with gastroenterologists is essential to assess progress, growth, and treatment adherence. Blood tests are also conducted to monitor celiac-related markers and ensure compliance with the gluten-free diet.
Conclusion: Individuals with celiac disease can lead entirely normal lives by closely adhering to a gluten-free diet. While adjusting to the new diet may be challenging initially, with time, it becomes second nature. Education, support, and medical care play crucial roles in effectively managing celiac disease and maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.