Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide. It is characterized by an intolerance to gluten, a protein present in wheat, barley and rye. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system reacts abnormally, causing damage to the lining of the small intestine and making it difficult to absorb nutrients. The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely from person to person, and can manifest in different ways and degrees of severity.
Classic Symptoms
Chronic diarrhea
One of the most common symptoms of celiac disease is chronic diarrhea, which can be intermittent or persistent and accompanied by smelly, light-colored stools due to poor absorption of nutrients .
Abdominal pain
People with celiac disease often experience abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating as a result of inflammation in the small intestine.
Loss of weight
Nutrient malabsorption caused by celiac disease can lead to unintentional weight loss, despite adequate food consumption.
Fatigue and weakness
Nutrient deficiency caused by celiac disease can cause chronic fatigue, weakness and lack of energy in affected people.
Atypical Symptoms
Skin problems
Some people with celiac disease may experience skin problems such as dermatitis herpetiformis, a painful, itchy rash that usually appears on the elbows, knees, back, and buttocks.
Headache
Recurrent and severe headaches can be a symptom of celiac disease in some people, and improve or disappear after adopting a gluten-free diet.
Depression and anxiety
The Celiac disease has been associated with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, which can improve with proper treatment and the elimination of gluten from the diet.
Digestive problems
In Instead of diarrhea, some people with celiac disease may experience constipation, gas, abdominal bloating, and other digestive problems without an apparent cause.
Diagnosis and Management
If you suspect you may have celiac disease Due to the presence of some of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help for a proper diagnosis. The first step is usually a blood test to detect the presence of specific antibodies associated with celiac disease. If the results are positive, an intestinal biopsy will likely be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Once celiac disease has been diagnosed, the main treatment is to follow a strict gluten-free diet for life. This means avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley, rye and any derivatives of these cereals. It is essential to carefully read product labels and become familiar with permitted and prohibited foods to avoid cross-contamination.
Psychological Support
The diagnosis of celiac disease and the need to drastically change Dieting can be psychologically challenging. For this reason, it is important to have the support of a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or counselor, to help cope with the emotional and psychological changes that may arise.
Support from Support groups and online communities of people with celiac disease can also be invaluable in sharing experiences, advice and motivation in the process of adapting to the new diet and lifestyle.
Medical Follow-up
It is essential to carry out regular medical follow-up with a gastroenterologist and a dietician specialized in celiac disease to evaluate the evolution of the disease, control gluten intake and ensure adequate long-term nutrition.
In In cases of complications or nutritional deficiencies, vitamin supplements may be necessary to ensure an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals. Early detection and treatment of possible complications of celiac disease, such as osteoporosis, anemia or lactose intolerance, are essential to preserve long-term health.
Conclusions
In summary, celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the body's ability to tolerate gluten present in some foods. The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely and manifest in many different ways, from digestive and dermatological problems to psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which includes diet strict gluten-free, are essential to control the disease and prevent long-term complications. In addition, psychological support and regular medical follow-up are important components in the comprehensive management of celiac disease and in improving the quality of life of affected people.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above and you suspect that you might have celiac disease, do not hesitate to consult a specialist doctor to obtain an accurate diagnosis and receive the appropriate treatment. With proper management and care, it is possible to lead a full and healthy life even with celiac disease.