Oak Valley Health’s patient education pages share the skills, knowledge, and habits patients and families need to know to cope with a daily health issue. We hope this information can influence patient behaviour to improve health outcomes and provide you with a sense of control and autonomy.
Learn more about the risks, causes, and treatment of celiac disease
Celiac disease is a condition in which your immune system attacks and damages your small intestine. This is referred to as an autoimmune disease. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten-containing food, the immune system attacks the cells that line the small intestine. This reaction, over time, damages the small intestine and renders it unable to absorb nutrients from food.
Gluten can be found in wheat, rye, and barley, including food such as pasta, pizza, and cereal. Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue, non-tropical sprue, and gluten-sensitive enteropathy, a digestive disorder.
A gene inherited from a family member.
Family member with the celiac disease
You have an autoimmune condition, (type 1 diabetes or a thyroid disorder)
You are female
Reoccurring bloating, abdominal pain, or gas
Chronic diarrhea
Stool that is pale, bad-smelling, greasy, or oily
Weight loss
Missed menstrual periods
Osteoporosis
Weakness and fatigue
Tingling and other symptoms of nerve damage
Depression
Poor appetite
Rash
This condition has no cure, but it can be managed with a gluten-free diet.
Dairy foods, such as milk and cheese, are difficult to digest; treatment may also include avoiding them.
Following a gluten-free diet will allow you to feel better and experience fewer symptoms.
In most cases, the intestine heals within 3 months to 2 years
You are on a gluten free diet but you still have ongoing symptoms
