By: Chelsea Brinegar

“Celiac disease affects 1 person in every 141 in the United States” (1)

I think you will agree, with these kinds of statistics everyone must know someone who has this disease. However, there are also many out there who don’t know they have it.

For those that have been diagnosed with celiac disease, it can be bitter sweet news.

On one hand, they are relieved to know they have an explanation, on the other it’s a life changing one. Trying to absorb the essential information takes time to process and can be overwhelming.

I’ve put together a complete celiac guide for those who would like to discover more about the disease and for those who want to know how to learn to cope living with it.

Definition of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a condition which affects the digestive system. It’s an autoimmune disease which means your immune system gets its wires crossed. Instead of protecting you, it attacks you.

The trigger comes down to eating foods containing gluten. (2) This abnormal reaction damages the lining in the small intestine and affects the body’s ability to absorb nutrients as well as other complications.

Is celiac disease the same as gluten intolerance?
Many people think celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity is one and the same. When you consider the symptoms, causes, and treatment all overlap in similarity, this is totally understandable.

However, the biggest difference, having a gluten intolerance doesn’t appear to damage the lining of the gut.

For those tested and not diagnosed with either celiac disease or a gluten allergy, they are defined as having non-celiac gluten sensitivity. (3)

Signs and Symptoms

The problem with celiac disease is that there are many symptoms and it can vary from person to person. Therefore, it creates a challenge for many to get a proper diagnosis.

With celiac disease, digestive issues are likely. Although these are more prevalent in children than in adults, it’s possible to experience symptoms such as: (4)

- Diarrhea

- Abdominal pains

- Bloating

- Indigestion

- Constipation

- Gas

In fact, for adults, it’s more common to display warning signs which are not directly related to the digestive system. You may experience one or more of the following issues:

- Fatigue

- Anemia

- Headaches or migraines

- Skin rash (dermatitis)

- Tingling sensation in limbs (hands and feet)

- Joint pain

- Weight loss

- Depression

- Mouth ulcers

Symptoms can be persistent, or they can come and go. In some cases, no signs are experienced whatsoever.

If any of this sounds all too familiar for you or your child, have a chat with your physician to discuss your concerns.