Understanding Coeliac Disease and Its Symptoms
- Jenny Ivanova
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition affecting millions worldwide. For anyone with the condition, eating gluten—a protein in wheat, barley, and rye—results in an immune response that damages the small intestine. This blog post aims to explain coeliac disease, its symptoms, and the vital role of diagnosis and management.
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is not just a food intolerance; it is an autoimmune disorder. When people with this condition consume gluten, their immune system wrongly attacks the lining of the small intestine, damaging it. This damage impairs nutrient absorption, leading to various health problems.
While the precise cause of coeliac disease remains unclear, genetics plays a significant role. For example, if a parent or sibling has coeliac disease, you have a one in ten chance of developing it too. Additionally, certain environmental factors, such as viral infections or shifts in gut bacteria, may trigger the disease in those with a genetic predisposition.
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease symptoms can differ greatly from person to person, making diagnosis challenging. Some individuals may experience severe symptoms, while others may exhibit mild or no symptoms. Here are some notable symptoms associated with coeliac disease:
Digestive Symptoms
Digestive issues are common among individuals with coeliac disease. These can include:
Diarrhea: Frequent, loose stools are seen in about 80% of diagnosed individuals.
Bloating: Many experience a sense of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
Gas: Increased flatulence can result from malabsorption or sensitivity to gluten.
Abdominal Pain: Cramping or discomfort can be frequent, prompting medical consultations.
While these symptoms often lead individuals to seek medical advice, they are frequently mistaken for other gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Non-Digestive Symptoms
Coeliac disease can also show up as various non-digestive symptoms. These may include:
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness can be prevalent due to nutrient deficiencies, with studies showing that up to 60% of individuals report fatigue as a main complaint.
Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss often occurs as a direct result of malabsorption.
Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia appears in about 20% of people diagnosed with coeliac disease.
Skin Rashes: Dermatitis herpetiformis, causing itchy blisters, is often linked to this condition.
Joint Pain: Some report arthritis-like symptoms, notably in the hands and knees.
These non-digestive symptoms can lead to misdiagnoses, as they may be attributed to other health issues.
Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease
Diagnosing coeliac disease generally involves blood tests and a biopsy of the small intestine. Blood tests look for specific antibodies, such as IgA tissue transglutaminase. If positive, a biopsy is performed to examine any damage to the intestinal lining.
It's crucial for individuals to keep eating gluten until testing is complete. Removing gluten from the diet too soon can result in false-negative results, delaying accurate diagnosis.
Management and Treatment
The primary treatment for coeliac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods and products containing wheat, barley, and rye. To illustrate, 1 in 100 people globally have coeliac disease, making it vital to read labels carefully and to be aware of cross-contamination in food preparation.
In addition to dietary changes, working with a healthcare professional or a dietitian is often essential. They can help ensure nutritional needs are met and may recommend supplements to address deficiencies, such as iron or vitamin D.
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