Celiac Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Celiac disease is a long-term condition in which eating gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye) triggers the immune system to damage the lining of the small intestine. Over time this makes it harder for the body to absorb nutrients, which is why it can show up in so many different ways.

Common symptoms

Symptoms vary widely from person to person. Some people have obvious digestive complaints, while others notice only tiredness or anaemia. Watch for:

• Bloating, loose stools or stomach pain after meals
• Unexplained weight loss or poor growth in children
• Long-standing iron-deficiency anaemia that does not improve
• Fatigue, mouth ulcers or an itchy skin rash

How it is diagnosed

Diagnosis usually starts with a simple blood test for celiac antibodies. If that is positive, an upper GI endoscopy with a small biopsy of the intestine confirms it. It is important not to start a gluten-free diet before testing, as this can hide the disease and lead to a missed diagnosis.

Treatment and living well

There is no medicine that cures celiac disease, but a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet allows the gut to heal completely and symptoms to disappear. With guidance this is very manageable: rice, millets, pulses, fruits, vegetables, dairy and most Indian staples are naturally gluten-free.

If you suspect celiac disease, get tested before changing your diet. A clear diagnosis means you can manage it confidently for life.