Celiac Disease Management

Comprehensive Care for Long-Term Digestive Health

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In individuals with celiac disease, gluten consumption leads to damage in the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption and causing a variety of symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications.

At Central Gastro, we provide expert diagnosis and management of celiac disease to help patients lead healthier, symptom-free lives.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease symptoms vary widely and can affect both the digestive system and other parts of the body:

Digestive Symptoms:

• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Abdominal pain and bloating.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea).

Non-Digestive Symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Iron-deficiency anemia.
• Bone or joint pain.
• Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis).
• Infertility or recurrent miscarriage.
• Neurological issues such as headaches or tingling in hands and feet.

If you experience persistent symptoms or have a family history of celiac disease, early evaluation is crucial.

Diagnosis of Celiac Disease

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm celiac disease:

1. Blood Tests:

• Tissue Transglutaminase Antibodies (tTG-IgA): The most common and reliable blood test for celiac disease.
• Deamidated Gliadin Peptide (DGP) Antibodies: Used for individuals with IgA deficiency or inconclusive tTG results.

2. Genetic Testing:

• Identifies the presence of HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes, which are associated with celiac disease.

3. Upper Endoscopy with Biopsy:

• A definitive diagnostic procedure that involves examining and taking tissue samples from the small intestine to check for damage.

Celiac Disease Management at Central Gastro

Effective management of celiac disease requires a lifelong commitment to dietary and lifestyle changes, supported by medical guidance.

1. Gluten-Free Diet:

• The cornerstone of celiac disease management, eliminating all sources of gluten from your diet.
• Our dietitians provide tailored nutritional counseling to help you maintain a balanced, gluten-free diet.

2. Monitoring and Follow-Up:

• Regular check-ups to monitor symptoms and nutritional deficiencies.
• Blood tests to ensure compliance with a gluten-free diet and assess healing.

3. Managing Nutritional Deficiencies:

• Supplementation of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12, to address deficiencies caused by malabsorption.

4. Managing Associated Conditions:

• Addressing complications like osteoporosis, anemia, or lactose intolerance.
• Screening for other autoimmune disorders often associated with celiac disease, such as type 1 diabetes or thyroid disorders.

5. Support for Non-Responsive Celiac Disease:

• Comprehensive evaluation for individuals who continue to experience symptoms despite following a gluten-free diet.
• Testing for gluten contamination or alternative diagnoses, such as refractory celiac disease.

Long-Term Benefits of Proper Celiac Disease Management

• Relief from symptoms and improved quality of life.
• Prevention of complications such as osteoporosis, anemia, and small intestine damage.
• Improved nutrient absorption and overall health.

When to Seek Care for Celiac Disease

If you experience persistent digestive symptoms, have a family history of celiac disease, or suspect gluten sensitivity, contact us for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and management can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.