Coeliac disease - causes, symptoms & gluten-free treatment
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease caused by gluten - symptoms such as diarrhoea and fatigue improve sustainably with a gluten-free diet.
Things worth knowing about "Coeliac disease"
Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the consumption of gluten leads to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the small intestine.
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley and spelt. In people with coeliac disease, contact with gluten leads to a misdirected immune reaction that attacks the intestinal mucosa and damages the villi of the small intestine, which are responsible for nutrient absorption. This damage can lead to significant health problems, as the body can no longer absorb important vitamins, minerals and other nutrients sufficiently.
Symptoms of coeliac diseaseTypical symptoms of coeliac disease are diarrhoea, flatulence, abdominal pain and nausea. Many sufferers also experience fatigue, weight loss and iron deficiency, as the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine is impaired. In children, coeliac disease can cause growth disorders, developmental delays or behavioural problems. Other symptoms can include skin rashes, joint pain and an increased susceptibility to other autoimmune diseases. As coeliac disease is a systemic condition, less specific symptoms such as depression, headaches or hair loss can also occur. In some cases, coeliac disease remains undetected for a long time as the symptoms can be mild or atypical.
Differentiation from other intolerances
Gluten intolerance is often used as an umbrella term, but encompasses various conditions. In addition to coeliac disease, it includes non-celiac gluten sensitivity and wheat allergy. While coeliac disease is an autoimmune reaction, gluten sensitivity causes similar symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain and fatigue without damaging the small intestine. Wheat allergy, on the other hand, is a classic allergic reaction to proteins in wheat, including gluten.
Treatment of coeliac disease
The only effective treatment for coeliac disease is a lifelong gluten-free diet. Sufferers must strictly avoid all foods containing gluten in order to protect the intestinal mucosa and prevent symptoms. Alternatives such as rice, corn, quinoa, millet or buckwheat enable a varied and healthy diet. It is also important to avoid cross-contamination, as even the smallest amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms. Foods labelled as ""gluten-free"" offer those affected peace of mind and make everyday life easier.
Untreated coeliac disease can lead to serious complications in the long term, including osteoporosis, infertility, neurological disorders or an increased risk of certain types of cancer such as small intestine lymphoma. Studies show that anti-inflammatory substances such as lactoferrin could have a supportive effect by modulating the immune response and promoting intestinal health. However, these approaches are still being researched.Conclusion
An early diagnosis and a consistent gluten-free diet can alleviate the symptoms of coeliac disease and regenerate the intestinal mucosa. Conscious food choices and professional support help those affected to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Gluten intolerance remains an important issue that requires education and understanding in order to improve the quality of life of those affected.
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