Celiac disease

Celiac disease

ABOUT

SYMPTOMS

TREATMENTS

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

Download PDF

Related conditions

Hypothyroidism

A condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone.

Very common

Malabsorption

A condition that prevents absorption of nutrients through the small intestine.

Common

Gluten sensitivity

Sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Very common

Food intolerance

Digestive problems that occur after a certain food is eaten.

Very common

Lactose intolerance

The inability to fully digest sugar (lactose) in dairy products.

Very common

Irritable bowel syndrome

An intestinal disorder causing pain in the belly, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.

Common

Peripheral neuropathy

Weakness, numbness, and pain from nerve damage, usually in the hands and feet.

Very common

Anemia

A condition in which the blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells.

Very common

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Anemia or nervous system injury from lower than normal amounts of vitamin B12.

Very common

Malnutrition

Lack of sufficient nutrients in the body.

Common

Iron deficiency

A condition of too little iron in the body.