Gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, is a commonly misdiagnosed problem. The symptoms can include diarrhea, gas, bloating, weight loss, vomiting, anemia, severe fatigue, miscarriage and osteoporosis. These symptoms can mimic other diseases, or seem like separate unrelated problems. Sometimes the patient suffers for years before an astute medical professional puts the pieces of puzzle together.
The symptoms of celiac disease can start in early childhood, or later in life. It is caused by the body’ s autoimmune response to the gluten protein, which is found in wheat or other grains. This response affects the small intestine and causes it to work less efficiently. There is a genetic component, so it is important to be aware if other family members have had similar problems. A specific event can trigger the disease, such as surgery, a virus, pregnancy or trauma. Left untreated, the symptoms can wreak havoc on a person’s health and severely affect their quality of life. Undiagnosed celiac disease can even cause certain cancers and increase the mortality rate.
The good news is that once celiac disease is diagnosed, it is usually resolved by avoiding the consumption of all gluten products. Most patients report symptom improvement quickly, and the small intestine will begin to repair itself. Although the diet may seem difficult to maintain, the public awareness of this problem has made it easier to identify gluten-free products and now more information is available to make the diet an enjoyable and workable solution.
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