When it comes to celiac disease, it’s important to understand what it is, what treatment options are available and how to live comfortably each day. Studies have shown that approximately one in 100 people are living with this disease. That comes out to about 2.5 million people in the United States. With so many people affected by this disease, being aware of the causes and symptoms can help those individuals who deal with it on a regular basis.
Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that currently affects individuals all over the world. This autoimmune disordermakes it impossible for people with this disease to digest gluten without severe side effects. Once someone with this disease eats food substances containing gluten, their body has an immune response that begins to attack their small intestine. Once these attacks begin, the villi are damaged in the small intestine. These villi are finger-like projections that are there to line the small intestine and absorb nutrients from foods that enter the body.
An individual living with celiac disease who continues to consume gluten will have digestive problems. Their abdominal bloating, gas, diarrhea, pain and pale stools will be a strong indicator of the disease. They may also develop a skin rash, seizures or iron deficiency. Weight loss, muscle cramps and joint pain may also be present. It’s common for women to miss menstrual periods as well. Children may experience growth problems. As a hereditary disease, those who have a parent, sibling or child with celiac disease have a 10 percent chance of developing this autoimmune disorder.
This digestive disease doesn’t discriminate based on age. It can progress after an individual begins to eat foods or take medicines that contain gluten. Colorado celiac disease doctors can find out if an individual has this autoimmune disorder. Without proper treatment, it can pave the way for even more complex health issues. This can include other autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis and Type 1 diabetes. Individuals can become anemic and develop osteoporosis.
In order to treat this disease, these individuals must stay away from foods that contain gluten. It helps to be under the guidance of a nutritionist and doctor who are familiar with this digestive disease and help them find alternatives to gluten food substances. In order to stay healthy and happy, an individual must stay on a gluten-free diet for the rest of their life. Colorado celiac disease doctors can help patients understand their disorder.
As more people understand what an individual’s life with this autoimmune disorder is like, family members, friends and co-workers can support those who are living with celiac disease. Please call us for more information or to make an appointment!