Celiac Disease: A Deep Dive

Approximately 1 in 100 people have celiac disease (CD). Although CD is quite common, over 80% of people with the autoimmune disease are undiagnosed. Since so many people are unaware of its existence, they may have the question; “what is Celiac Disease?” CD is an autoimmune disorder that becomes triggered by the consumption of gluten prompting the immune system to strike the gluten protein in the small intestine. This can lead to inflammation of the small intestine’s lining, which then prevents nutrients from being fully absorbed (MayoClinic).

Symptoms of celiac disease include malnutrition, weight loss, stomach pain, bloating, changes in stool, anxiety, depression, brain fog, development of dermatitis herpetiformis, etc. (ClevelandClinic). Unlike symptoms, the causes of celiac disease do not vary. It is almost always genetically inherited, and environmental causes are extremely rare. With symptoms and genetics defining CD, how does one get diagnosed?

Celiac disease can be tested for with serology and genetic testing (blood tests) as well as an endoscopy (MayoClinic). Before getting tested, it is important not to stop the consumption of gluten, as withdrawal can interfere with the outcome. After a diagnosis, there are many ways to manage CD to reduce and prevent symptoms. Ways to manage the autoimmune disease include a lifelong gluten-free diet, using a gluten detection device, taking supplements for deficiencies, or taking medication. These medications may include corticosteroids such as prednisone, budesonide, dexamethasone, and immunosuppressants such as azathioprine (MayoClinic).

Overall, Celiac Disease is a serious autoimmune disease that affects millions of people all across the globe. Learning about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments helps with understanding what people with CD go through, and may even help with identifying it if you see signs in yourself or others.

April 5 • Written by Donna Ju • Edited by Nathan Lee and Erin Tran