Celiac disease

Celiac Disease: Understanding and Managing This Gut Disorder

Celiac disease, also known as Heubner-Herter disease or Gi-Herter-Heubner disease, is a chronic autoimmune intestinal disorder. The term "celiac disease" comes from the Greek word "koiliakos", which means "suffering from a bowel disorder" and refers to the main source of the problem - the abdominal cavity.

People with celiac disease experience an intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. When eating food containing gluten, the human immune system begins to attack the intestines, causing inflammation and damage to its walls. This can lead to various symptoms and complications.

One of the features of celiac disease is its autoimmune nature. When food containing gluten enters the intestines, the immune system produces antibodies against the intestines' own cells, deeming them a threat. This leads to damage to the intestinal villi, which are responsible for absorbing nutrients from food. Without proper treatment, celiac disease can lead to nutritional deficiencies, a weakened immune system, and an increased risk of developing other diseases.

Symptoms of celiac disease can be varied and vary depending on age and the degree of damage to the intestines. Some of the most common symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal swelling, gaiety, fatigue, indigestion, and nutritional deficiencies. In children, celiac disease can cause delays in growth and development, as well as dental and skeletal problems.

Diagnosis of celiac disease includes a physical examination, blood tests and an intestinal biopsy. Treatment for celiac disease is based on completely eliminating gluten from the diet. Patients are advised to maintain a gluten-free diet throughout their lives. This means avoiding wheat, rye, barley and foods containing these grains. It is also important to pay attention to hidden gluten, which may be present in various products as an additive or substance used in production.

Following a gluten-free diet can lead to complete gut recovery and relief of symptoms in most patients with celiac disease. However, this requires strict adherence to dietary guidelines and awareness of gluten in food. Some patients may require additional medical support to manage complications or nutritional deficiencies.

Celiac disease has received increasing attention and research in recent years. There are new methods of diagnosing and testing for genetic predisposition to celiac disease. Research is also being conducted to develop new medications that may help patients with celiac disease.

Celiac disease also highlights the importance of awareness of food allergies and intolerances in the community. Raising awareness about celiac disease can help patients gain support and understanding from others, as well as promote the development of gluten-free products and dietary options.

In conclusion, celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune intestinal disorder caused by gluten intolerance. It can have a variety of symptoms and potentially complications, but can be effectively managed with a gluten-free diet. Understanding and awareness of this disease is important for society as a whole to provide support and make life easier for people living with celiac disease.