Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system. People with the condition have an intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When these foods are consumed, the immune system attacks the small intestine, damaging the villi, which are tiny projections that line the intestine and help absorb nutrients. Left untreated, celiac disease can cause serious health complications, including malnutrition, anemia, and even cancer.
What Happens if Celiac Disease is Not Treated?
If Celiac Disease is not treated, the small intestine can become severely damaged, leading to malabsorption of vital nutrients like iron, calcium, folate, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. This can lead to anemia, fatigue, weight loss, and a weakened immune system. Long-term complications of Celiac Disease can include intestinal cancers, osteoporosis, infertility, and even neurological problems.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Celiac Disease
Celiac Disease can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. The most accurate way to diagnose celiac disease is by taking a blood test and performing an intestinal biopsy. If the diagnosis is positive, the only treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet. This means removing all sources of gluten from the diet, including breads, pastas, cereals, and processed foods. It also means learning to read food labels carefully to identify hidden sources of gluten.
Living with Celiac Disease
Living with celiac disease can be challenging, as it requires a complete lifestyle change. It’s important to educate yourself about the condition and to find support from family, friends, and the medical community. There are also many resources available online to help you on your journey, such as gluten-free recipes, support groups, and resources for traveling with celiac disease. With the right information and support, living with celiac disease can be manageable and even enjoyable.