Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease is a condition of the small intestine. It can occur at any age. Coeliac disease is caused by a reaction of the gut to gluten. Gluten is part of certain foods – mainly foods made from wheat, barley and rye. The reaction to gluten causes inflammation in the lining of the gut. This stops the gut from working properly. Various symptoms can develop including abdominal pains, tiredness, weight loss, excess wind, bloating and diarrhoea. Poor absorption of food may cause deficiencies of vitamins, iron and other nutrients. Anaemia due to poor absorption of iron is common.

How is the diagnosis confirmed?

If coeliac disease is suspected, a blood test to detect a certain antibody that occurs in coeliac disease may be advised by your doctor. If it is present the diagnosis of coeliac disease is likely. To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy (small sample) is taken from the inside lining of the gut, this is looked at under a microscope to see if the typical changes of coeliac disease are present. The biopsy is usually taken by a flexible tube (endoscope) which is passed into the small intestine.

What are the treatments for coeliac disease

The main treatment is not to eat any food that contains gluten. The symptoms then usually go within a few weeks. You should get advice from a dietician on dietary requirements. You may also be advised to take some vitamin, calcium and iron supplements at least for the first six months following diagnosis. This is to replace any deficiencies, and to make sure you get enough of these whilst the gut lining is returning to normal.

Further help and information

Coeliac UK, Suites A-D, Octagon Court, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2HS.

Helpline: 0870 4448804 Web: www.coeliac.org.uk

Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of coeliac disiease in adults, Crest (2006).

Guidelines for the management of patients with coeliac disease, British Society of Gastroenterology (2002).