Coeliac Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune response damages the villi—tiny, hair-like projections lining the small intestine—when exposed to gluten. Since villi are responsible for absorbing fluids and nutrients, their impairment can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies. While gluten is a harmless protein found in grains for most individuals, those with coeliac disease experience severe intestinal damage when consuming it. The exact cause remains unknown.
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
Symptoms of coeliac disease vary from person to person and can affect multiple systems in the body. Common symptoms include:
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Digestive Issues:
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Constipation
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Diarrhea
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Pale, greasy, bulky, or particularly foul-smelling stools
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Physical Symptoms:
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Weakness
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Weight loss
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Poor appetite
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Protruding abdomen
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Scaly skin
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Cramps and spasms
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Iron deficiency anemia
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Vomiting
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Osteomalacia (softening of the bones)
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Obesity
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Bone pain
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Very pale skin color
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Manage Your Diet Anywhere
Diagnosing Coeliac Disease
A proper diagnosis should be conducted by a qualified healthcare professional. The diagnostic process typically includes:
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A biopsy of the small intestine to check for villous atrophy.
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Blood tests to identify coeliac-specific antibodies.
Individuals with coeliac disease are at an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers and other complications, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.
Foods to Avoid
Managing coeliac disease requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. Foods containing gluten include:
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Wheat, barley, rye, malt, and oats (unless certified gluten-free)
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Processed foods that may contain hidden gluten
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Foods prepared in facilities where cross-contamination may occur (e.g., some Chinese cuisine containing wheat-based gluten called seitan)
Safe alternatives include naturally gluten-free grains like rice and corn. Additionally, some individuals with coeliac disease may experience difficulty digesting dairy products.
Recommended Supplements
Since nutrient absorption is impaired, supplementation can help compensate for deficiencies. Recommended supplements include:
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Vitamins: A, B-complex, B12, C, D, E, K, and Folate
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Minerals: Iron, Calcium, Magnesium
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Digestive Aids: Betaine HCL, Digestive enzymes
Additional Insights
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Studies suggest that breastfed children may have a higher tolerance to gluten, possibly due to the delayed introduction of grains into their diet.
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Coeliac disease has been linked to diarrhea in individuals with insulin-dependent diabetes.
Conclusion
Coeliac disease is a lifelong condition requiring careful dietary management. Individuals should consult healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment. By maintaining a strict gluten-free diet and considering necessary supplementation, those with coeliac disease can manage symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
Health Staff Writer
ClinicalTrials.gov. (2025). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial to evaluate safety and efficacy of AGY in celiac disease.
