Celiac Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Celiac disease is a hereditary, chronic digestive condition and an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten-containing foods. It causes significant intestinal damage, which prevents the body from absorbing nutrients properly and leads to an immune response that can affect various body systems.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and in some prepared foods such as pasta, cakes, bread, and breakfast cereals.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

Keep in mind that symptoms of celiac disease may vary from individual to individual and may range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of celiac disease include:

• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Feeling bloated
• Bowel movements that are oily and float
• Lack of appetite
• Unexplained low blood count (iron deficiency anaemia)
• Tingling sensation or numbness in the legs
• Infertility
• Osteoporosis or osteopenia 
• Liver disease
• Itchy rash

Celiac disease symptoms may appear similar to other health issues. This is why you should always consult your doctor to know more.

What are the risk factors?

It is not fully understood why individuals develop celiac disease. However, several factors are known to increase your risk of getting celiac disease:

• Family history: Celiac disease usually runs in families. Your chances of developing this condition are increased if you have a close relative, like a parent or a sibling with the condition.

• Environmental factors: The possibility of you developing celiac disease increases if you have a digestive system infection (such as a rotavirus infection) during early childhood. Most experts recommend waiting until your child is at least 6 months old before introducing foods containing gluten. Additionally, there might also be a higher chance of babies getting celiac disease if they are not being breastfed when gluten is brought into their diet.

How is celiac disease diagnosed?

Celiac disease diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination and diagnostic tests.

• Blood tests: These tests measure specific antibodies that are usually elevated in people with celiac disease. Individuals with celiac disease have higher than normal levels of these cells. 

• Small intestine biopsy: The most accurate way to determine if you have celiac disease is through a tissue sample extracted from your small intestine to check for damage to the villi. This procedure involves inserting a long, thin tube called an endoscope through your mouth, down to your stomach, and into your small intestine. Tools passed through the tube are used to extract a tissue sample, which is then sent to a lab for examination.

How is it treated and managed?

The primary treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet, which allows the small intestine to heal, prevents further damage, and alleviates symptoms.

1. Eliminate gluten:
   • Eliminating gluten from your diet will stop symptoms and prevent further damage.
   • Gluten is present in many foods, including condiments and salad dressings, making it challenging to avoid.
2. Consult a dietitian:
   • Due to the difficulty of maintaining a gluten-free diet, a doctor may advise consulting a dietitian for guidance.
3. Avoid cross-contamination:
   • Be vigilant about avoiding cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods.
   • Use separate cooking utensils, toasters, and cutting boards.
   • Be careful with food preparation, especially in shared kitchens or when dining out.
   • Choose restaurants that provide gluten-free menus.
4. Read ingredient labels:
   • Always check the ingredient labels on food products, medications, vitamins, supplements, and probiotics, as they may contain wheat or wheat byproducts.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Consult our doctors if you are experiencing symptoms of celiac disease. A dedicated and expert team of Gastroenterologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance.

Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding celiac disease. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.