Gluten can negatively affect the immune system in some people. This can celiac disease It is known as. The disease causes damage to the small intestines. Foods containing gluten trigger the disease. Symptoms include stomach pain, liquid stools and weight loss. Early diagnosis makes the treatment process easier. This disease requires a gluten-free diet. If left untreated for a long time, it can cause significant health problems.
What is Celiac Disease and What are its Symptoms?
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. Some people are hypersensitive to this protein. The immune system mistakenly damages the small intestines when gluten enters the body. This can cause health problems in the future. Gluten stimulates the immune system and damages the digestive system.
Celiac disease Symptoms are usually related to the digestive system. Abdominal pain, bloating and gas are among the most common complaints. Diarrhea or constipation may also occur. Weight loss may occur because adequate nutrient absorption is not provided. Some people may also experience skin rashes or muscle pain. These symptoms are usually worsened by gluten intake.
The immune system's reaction causes damage to the small intestine. This damage prevents the absorption of nutrients in the intestine. As a result, the body cannot absorb enough nutrients. Conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies may develop. Growth retardation and loss of bone density may also occur.
Some tests are done to make a diagnosis. Blood tests measure the immune system's response. However, a definitive diagnosis is made with a biopsy. These tests look for damage to the intestines. Treatment is usually provided by a completely gluten-free diet. This diet is very effective in controlling the symptoms of the disease.
Celiac Disease Diagnosis
A series of tests are performed to diagnose people suspected of gluten sensitivity. This disease usually begins with digestive problems and other symptoms. The most common symptoms of the disease are stomach pain, liquid stools, gas accumulation and weight loss. However, some people have no symptoms or may experience different symptoms. This can make the diagnosis process difficult.
Celiac disease The first step in diagnosis is a blood test. Blood tests show whether there is an immune response in the body against gluten protein. The presence of specific antibodies confirms the doctor's suspicions. These tests are the first important step in determining the disease. However, a definitive diagnosis cannot be made with a blood test alone.
A biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis. A biopsy is performed by taking a tissue sample from the small intestine. This test shows whether there is damage to the intestine. Examinations performed on the tissue sample determine whether the intestinal lining is damaged. This test definitively reveals the presence of the disease.
Sometimes there may be conditions that make diagnosis difficult. Especially in individuals with mild symptoms, the disease may be recognized late. In addition, this disease can be confused with other health problems. For example, digestive system disorders or vitamin deficiencies may show similar symptoms. For this reason, doctors perform a comprehensive examination.
Celiac Disease Treatment
The basic approach to treating this disease is to completely avoid foods that contain gluten. When gluten is taken into the body, it triggers the immune system and causes damage to the intestines. Therefore, the most important step in the treatment process is to completely remove gluten from the diet. This plays a very important role in managing the symptoms of patients.
Diet plays a major role in the treatment process. Gluten-free foods should be preferred. Rice, corn, oats and other gluten-free alternatives can be used instead of grains such as wheat, barley and rye. In addition, natural foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, meat and dairy products should be included in the patient's diet. Avoiding processed foods is beneficial for health.
In addition to a gluten-free diet, doctors may recommend certain supplements. Many people with this disease have vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12 deficiencies are especially common. Supplements can be used to correct these deficiencies. However, these supplements should be taken with a doctor's advice.
Dietary changes alone may not be enough to treat the disease. In some cases, additional treatment methods may be required. For example, damage to the intestines may take time to heal. The healing process may vary from person to person. Therefore, it is very important for patients to follow their doctors' recommendations during the treatment process.
A gluten-free diet, celiac disease It is the basic approach in treatment. Patients who follow this diet can control their symptoms. Careful nutrition, vitamin supplements and regular doctor check-ups are important during the treatment process. Timely diagnosis and treatment greatly improves patients' living standards.
