Celiac Disease
Celiac Disease is the disease of mucosa (lining) of small intestine. The small intestine is almost 20 feet and lies between stomach and the large intestine. It has finger like projections called Villi that increases the surface area for absorption of food and hence maximum absorption of nutrients into the blood takes place in this region.
It is a genetic disorder (i.e. It can be passed from the parents to their children) and is characterized by small bowel dysfunction after ingestion of gluten in wheat and all wheat products, barley and rye. Gluten when comes in contact with villi, damges them and it hampers the absorption of nutrients.
It may accur in infants or also in adults.
- Symptoms
- Anemia
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Stunted Growth
- Amenorrhea, Imfertility and Impotence
- Treatment
- Gluten Free Diet: Withdrawal of wheat/barley/rye containing food iten from the diet
- Dietary Supplements
- Steroids may be helpful in severely ill patients with crisis.