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What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system, primarily the small intestine. When people with this condition consume gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—their immune system responds by attacking the lining of the small intestine. This can lead to a variety of health issues due to malabsorption of nutrients.
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
The symptoms of Coeliac Disease vary widely among individuals and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anaemia due to iron deficiency
- Bone or joint pain
- Skin rashes, such as dermatitis herpetiformis
It's important to note that some people with Coeliac Disease may be asymptomatic, yet still at risk for long-term complications.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing Coeliac Disease typically involves a combination of blood tests and a biopsy of the small intestine. Blood tests look for specific antibodies that are usually elevated in individuals with the condition. If these tests are positive, a biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining the damage to the intestinal lining.
The only effective treatment for Coeliac Disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods and drinks containing wheat, barley, and rye. Many naturally gluten-free foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy, can be safely consumed. Additionally, many products in the UK are labelled as gluten-free, making it easier to manage the condition.
Living with Coeliac Disease in the UK
In the UK, awareness of Coeliac Disease is relatively high, and many resources are available for those living with the condition. The charity Coeliac UK offers support, information, and guidance, and there are numerous gluten-free products available in supermarkets. Moreover, an increasing number of restaurants provide gluten-free menu options, helping people with Coeliac Disease dine out safely.
Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are crucial to monitor health and nutritional status, ensuring a high quality of life despite the dietary restrictions. With appropriate management, individuals with Coeliac Disease can lead healthy, active lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.
What causes Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac Disease is caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Is Coeliac Disease the same as a wheat allergy?
No, a wheat allergy involves an allergic reaction to proteins found in wheat, while Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune response specifically to gluten.
What are the common symptoms of Coeliac Disease?
Symptoms can include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, and nutrient deficiencies, but some people might be asymptomatic.
How is Coeliac Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests for specific antibodies and an endoscopy with a biopsy of the small intestine to check for damage.
Can Coeliac Disease develop at any age?
Yes, Coeliac Disease can develop at any age, although it is often diagnosed in childhood or in mid-adulthood.
What foods contain gluten?
Gluten is found in foods made with wheat, barley, and rye, such as bread, pasta, cereals, and many processed foods.
Is there a cure for Coeliac Disease?
Currently, there is no cure for Coeliac Disease. The only treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.
What is the prevalence of Coeliac Disease in the UK?
Coeliac Disease affects about 1% of the population in the UK, though many cases remain undiagnosed.
Can people with Coeliac Disease eat oats?
Plain oats are naturally gluten-free, but they can be contaminated with gluten during processing. Only oats labelled as gluten-free are safe for people with Coeliac Disease.
What are long-term risks if Coeliac Disease is not managed?
Untreated Coeliac Disease can increase the risk of developing other autoimmune disorders, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions, and certain cancers.
Can gluten-free foods still cause issues for people with Coeliac Disease?
Yes, cross-contamination with gluten can occur. It's important to ensure that food is prepared and served in a manner that avoids such contamination.
Are there any support groups for individuals with Coeliac Disease in the UK?
Yes, organizations like Coeliac UK offer support, resources, and advocacy for individuals with Coeliac Disease.
Can children outgrow Coeliac Disease?
No, Coeliac Disease is a lifelong condition. Children diagnosed with Coeliac Disease will need to maintain a gluten-free diet throughout their lives.
Is it safe to consume trace amounts of gluten if I have Coeliac Disease?
No, even small amounts of gluten can trigger an immune response and cause damage to the small intestine in people with Coeliac Disease.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Coeliac Disease Explained - Gluten Sensitivity - A to Z of the NHS - Dr Gill
- NHS - Coeliac Disease Comprehensive information from the NHS about coeliac disease, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and guidance on living with the condition.
- Coeliac UK The UK's leading charity for people with coeliac disease, providing support, resources, and advocacy for those affected by gluten-related disorders.
- NHS - Gluten Sensitivity Information from the NHS on gluten sensitivity, including symptoms, diagnosis, and management of non-coeliac gluten sensitivity.
- Guts UK A charity focusing on digestive health, offering information and support on various gut issues, including coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity.
Useful links from: Diagnosing Coeliac Disease Updated 2021
- NHS - Coeliac disease This NHS page provides comprehensive information about coeliac disease, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and living with the condition.
- Coeliac UK - Diagnosis Coeliac UK offers detailed guidance on how coeliac disease is diagnosed, including what to expect from a blood test and biopsy.
- NICE - Coeliac disease: recognition, assessment and management (NG20) The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline NG20 covers the recognition, assessment, and management of coeliac disease.
- Guts UK - Coeliac Disease Information Guts UK provides information on coeliac disease, its symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and the treatments available.
Useful links from: Living Well with Coeliac Disease
- NHS - Coeliac disease Overview of coeliac disease including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and living with the condition from the National Health Service (NHS).
- Coeliac UK - Living with Coeliac Disease Comprehensive resource on living with coeliac disease provided by Coeliac UK, the charity dedicated to supporting those with the condition and their families.
- NHS - Coeliac disease: Foods to avoid Advice on foods to avoid with coeliac disease and substitutes that are available, from the NHS.
- Coeliac UK - Gluten-Free Diet Information on maintaining a gluten-free diet and lifestyle from Coeliac UK, including guidance on food labeling and eating out.
Useful links from: Coeliac disease
- NHS - Coeliac Disease The NHS page on Coeliac Disease provides comprehensive information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and living with the condition.
- Coeliac UK Coeliac UK is a charity that offers support, information, and resources for those affected by coeliac disease. Their website features guides on gluten-free living, research updates, and membership benefits.
- NHS - Gluten-Free Diet This NHS page provides detailed information about gluten-free diets, including tips for managing coeliac disease through dietary changes and ensuring nutritional balance.
- Gluten Free Food Trust The Gluten Free Food Trust is a UK-based charity dedicated to advocating for those with coeliac disease. They offer information on finding safe foods, navigating social situations, and the latest on gluten-free research.
Useful links from: Causes of coeliac disease
- NHS - Coeliac disease Provides information on the causes of coeliac disease, including genetic factors and how the immune system reacts to gluten.
- Coeliac UK - What causes coeliac disease? Explains the factors that may contribute to the development of coeliac disease, focusing on genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
- NHS Inform - Coeliac Disease Offers comprehensive details on coeliac disease, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Coeliac UK - Coeliac Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis Provides information on the various symptoms of coeliac disease and how it is diagnosed, as well as factors that can aggravate the condition.
Useful links from: NHSGGC - What is Coeliac Disease?
- NHS - Coeliac disease Comprehensive guide on coeliac disease provided by the NHS, covering symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and living with the condition.
- Coeliac UK - What is coeliac disease? Detailed information about coeliac disease from Coeliac UK, a leading charity for people with the condition. Includes resources for diagnosis, diet, and support.
- Gluten Free Society UK - Coeliac disease Resources and support provided by the Gluten Free Society UK, focusing on the causes, symptoms, and management of coeliac disease.
- British Dietetic Association - Coeliac disease Professional guidance from the British Dietetic Association on managing coeliac disease, including dietary advice and nutritional information.
Useful links from: Symptoms of coeliac disease
- NHS - Coeliac disease Comprehensive information from the NHS on coeliac disease, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
- Coeliac UK - Symptoms of coeliac disease Coeliac UK provides detailed insights into the various symptoms of coeliac disease, including digestive and non-digestive symptoms.
- NHS Inform - Coeliac Disease NHS Inform offers a thorough overview of coeliac disease, focusing on symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Coeliac UK - Living with coeliac disease This page from Coeliac UK provides support and information for people living with coeliac disease, including dietary advice and symptom management.
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