Sunday, February 25, 2018

Celiac disease

Celiac disease
Woman experiencing bloating and diarrhea. Side by side comparison of normal intestinal lining and intestinal lining damaged by celiac disease.
An immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Common
More than 200,000 US cases per year
Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured
Requires a medical diagnosis
Lab tests or imaging often required
Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
Over time, the immune reaction to eating gluten creates inflammation that damages the small intestine's lining, leading to medical complications. It also prevents absorption of some nutrients (malabsorption).
The classic symptom is diarrhea. Other symptoms include bloating, gas, fatigue, low blood count (anemia), and osteoporosis. Many people have no symptoms.
The mainstay of treatment is a strict gluten-free diet that can help manage symptoms and promote intestinal healing.
Ages affected
0-2
Rare
3-5
Common
6-13
Common
14-18
Common
19-40
Common
41-60
Common
60+
Common
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more

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