Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine and is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Here's an overview of key information about coeliac disease:


Causes and Risk Factors:

It's caused by an immune reaction to gluten.

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role; it's more common in individuals with a family history of the disease.

Environmental factors, such as gut bacteria and early dietary patterns, might contribute.


Symptoms:

Digestive problems such as abdominal bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients.

Iron-deficiency anaemia.

Fatigue and tiredness.

Unexplained weight loss.

Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis).

Bone or joint pain.

In children, growth problems and failure to thrive may be observed.


Diagnosis:

Blood tests to check for antibodies typically present in coeliac disease.

Endoscopy and biopsy of the small intestine to assess damage to the villi (small finger-like projections that absorb nutrients).

Genetic testing for HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes, which are associated with coeliac disease.


Treatment:

Strict, lifelong gluten-free diet is the primary treatment.

Nutritional counselling is often recommended to ensure a balanced diet.

Supplements might be needed to correct nutritional deficiencies.

Regular follow-up is important to monitor the response to a gluten-free diet and check for complications.


Complications:

Long-term complications include malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological diseases, and a small increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Untreated coeliac disease can lead to severe health problems, including damage to the small intestine.


Living with Coeliac Disease:

Adherence to a gluten-free diet can be challenging and may require significant lifestyle changes.

Education about which foods contain gluten and reading food labels are crucial.

Cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods should be avoided.

Support from dieticians, support groups, and educational resources can be helpful. https://coeliac.org.au/


Prevention and Screening:

Currently, there's no known way to prevent coeliac disease.

Screening is recommended for high-risk individuals, such as those with a family history or associated autoimmune disorders.



Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect you have coeliac disease, or if you are managing the condition, consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice and treatment.