Cereal grains such as wheat and barley have a protein called gluten in it. This particular protein, unlike peptides, does not get broken down by digestive enzymes easily. Human beings who suffer from celiac disease have an intolerance of gluten, leading to severe digestive problems whenever this protein is consumed. If this disease is not treated in time, then serious damage can take place in the small intestine of the patient. For this reason, consulting a renowned gastroenterologist in Delhi, Mumbai and other metropolitan cities is advised for those who have a family history of celiac disease.
Symptoms
As this medical condition is an autoimmune disorder, its symptoms can often mimic other issues in the body. The commonly observed signs are abdominal pain, bloating, feeling of fullness, constipation, flatulence, heartburn, and mouth ulcers. In some cases, patients might experience diarrhoea, joint pain, rashes, severe headaches, and nausea. Besides this, anaemia and unexplained weight loss have also been linked to celiac disease. Moreover, children suffering from this disorder might face neurological issues disabilities related to learning and ADHD.
Causes
The root cause of this condition has been not been found yet, however, it has been seen to run in families due to certain genes. This does not mean that every offspring will suffer from celiac disease, but a few individuals in the bloodline would be gluten intolerance. In the racial context, Caucasians are at a higher risk of celiac disease than others. People suffering from serious health conditions such as Addison’s disease, Down syndrome, and type 1 diabetes are susceptible to celiac disease as well.
Treatment
For diagnosis, serological tests are conducted in order to look for the presence of certain antibodies related to celiac disease. Along with this, genetic testing is also initiated for the patient. If the condition has progressed, then the medical practitioner will conduct an endoscopy to analyse the intestinal damage. A gluten-free diet has to be followed by a celiac disease patient throughout her/his lifetime. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages and consuming tobacco products should be avoided. If there is a lack of nutrients, then the gastroenterologist will prescribe supplements to the patient.
Celiac disease can be managed with a healthy diet plan that eliminates all gluten products. As it is a lifelong disorder, the patient should ensure that her/his intestines are checked regularly.
