Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in genetically predisposed (identified genes are HLA-DQ2 & HLA-DQ) people that can occur from infancy into adulthood. Gluten in the system (specifically gliadin) causes an autoimmune reaction which creates inflammation in the body & specifically in the small intestines. The inflammation in the small intestines flattens & damages villi which is responsible for absorbing nutrients and vitamins.
In a study done in 2004 the latest figures showed the prevalence of Celiac disease in US is 1:250 – 1:150 . It is still thought to be very under-diagnosed but rates are increasing due to screening even with out ‘classical’ symptoms or any symptoms at all (asymptomatic).
Symptoms of celiac disease may include:
- diarrhea
- constipation
- bloating
- lethargy
- no energy
- irritability
- depression
- menstrual abnormalities
- low or slow growth in children
- neurological issues are now just being noted (can be similar to MS)
- neuropathy
- ulcers of the mouth
- lactose intolerance
- iron deficiency
- osteopenia
- weight loss or weight gain
- undiagnosed celiac disease increases the prevalence of cancer in the small intestine and/or small bowel)
- dermatitis herpetiformis
- multiple miscarriages
- unexplained infertility
Up Next: Diagnosis & Treatment
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I think you are fabulous for doing this….helping others. Love ya girl!
Tina @ Life Without Pink recently posted..Darkness
Twitter: AccustomedChaos
February 16, 2011 at 11:11 pm
thank you Tina ♥
Twitter: cltalbert
February 15, 2011 at 1:17 pm
I have heard of this before. I hope your article helps people who may have this disease.
Cascia recently posted..Puzzles and Parrot
Twitter: AccustomedChaos
February 16, 2011 at 11:12 pm
Thank you Cascia
Thank you so much for sharing this information as a long time sufferer of IBS this was new to me.
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