8 Things All Celiac Patients Must Understand

Newly diagnosed patients have many questions regarding both celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Here are 8 pieces of information that every patient should know about celiac disease, and why it is important for patients and their family members to know as much as they can.

1. More than 200 symptoms have been linked to celiac disease

The most common symptoms seen in those with gluten sensitivity and celiac disease triggered by the accidental consumption of gluten are abdominal pain and diarrhea. When these two signs are constant and remain active over time, experts start thinking about a possible case of celiac disease.

However, they are not the only ones that can be seen in someone with celiac disease. Symptoms can be different for each patient, and sometimes, these symptoms are not obvious. Whether someone does or doesn't show any of the symptoms, they can still experience the negative effects of celiac disease, such as the higher risk of developing osteoporosis.

2. Specific blood tests can determine if someone suffers from celiac disease

A blood test still needs to be evaluated and developed, but it is now possible. Blood tests can now be used to screen for reactions to gluten and give a hint whether someone suffers from the condition or does not. People may also need an endoscopy or a biopsy of their intestines in order to confirm the diagnosis of a celiac disease, but it is surely an excellent way to have an idea on the patients’ possible condition.

3. It’s a serious immune disease

Although it is usually mistaken as an allergic reaction, a sensitivity syndrome that develops over time or an episode of intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, it is not. With celiac disease, gluten triggers an immune response that affects the small intestine in a serious way, for that reason, the symptoms derived from the accidental consumption of gluten may be extremely painful and devastating.

4. 1 percent of the world population suffers from celiac disease

Celiac disease is not considered an uncommon disease anymore. There are at least 11 million people who suffer from it and it is already being taken into consideration by the food industry, which is now focusing on the massive production of gluten-free products.

While a large number of people are known to suffer from celiac disease, only 20 percent of them know that they have it. The rest of that percentage lives with it and some may even be experiencing gluten sensitivity, rather than celiac disease. 

Read on to learn the 4 other things all patients should know about celiac disease.