Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine in response to gluten. This attack damages the lining of the small intestine, hindering nutrient absorption.
Understanding Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and oats. The immune system's reaction to gluten leads to inflammation and damage in the small intestine. This damage can result in various symptoms, affecting both the digestive system and other parts of the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary widely and may develop at any age. Some common symptoms include:
- Digestive issues: Diarrhea, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, constipation.
- Non-digestive issues: Anemia (due to iron deficiency), weight loss, fatigue, skin rashes, osteoporosis (loss of bone density), and neurological symptoms.
Causes and Genetic Predisposition
Research indicates a strong association between coeliac disease and genetic mutations. While the exact causes are not fully understood, it's clear that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in developing the condition.
Management and Treatment
There is no cure for coeliac disease, but it's effectively managed through a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. Eliminating gluten allows the small intestine to heal, resolving symptoms and preventing long-term complications. Following a gluten-free diet requires careful attention to food labels and avoiding cross-contamination. The improvement in symptoms is typically noticeable within days or weeks of starting the diet, with complete healing of the small intestine occurring within 3 to 6 months.
Key Points from References:
- Autoimmune Nature: Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system attacks healthy tissue (in this case, the small intestine).
- Gluten Trigger: Gluten consumption triggers the immune response and subsequent damage.
- Long-Term Management: The condition is managed, not cured, through a lifelong gluten-free diet.
- Intestinal Damage: Gluten ingestion causes damage to the lining of the small intestine, affecting nutrient absorption.
- Diverse Symptoms: Symptoms are varied and can impact both the digestive system and other body systems.
