Celiac Disease

If you experience bloating, gas, or abdominal pain in response to eating foods containing gluten, you may have celiac disease. Discover comprehensive care for Celiac Disease at Peak Gastroenterology Associates, where we offer unparalleled patient-focused care.

What Is Celiac Disease?

Celiac Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by ingesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with Celiac Disease consume gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine’s lining, impairing nutrient absorption.

smiling man with a towel on his shoulders

What Causes Celiac Disease?

Celiac Disease is primarily caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and the consumption of gluten-containing foods. The exact trigger is unclear, but it involves an abnormal immune response to gluten in genetically susceptible people. An untreated case of celiac disease puts you at risk of malnutrition, anemia, weak bones, infertility, nervous system problems, joint pain, and cancer. In children, celiac disease can cause failure to thrive, delayed puberty, short stature, and weight loss.

Anybody can develop celiac disease, but your risk increases if you have an autoimmune disorder related to your thyroid, a family history of celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, or Addison’s disease.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of Celiac Disease can vary significantly from person to person but commonly include:

Digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation
Weight loss and fatigue due to malabsorption of nutrients
Dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash
Anemia and other nutrient deficiencies
Bone or joint pain
Neurological symptoms, such as headaches or peripheral neuropathy

How Is Celiac Disease Treated?

The primary treatment for Celiac Disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which helps heal intestinal damage and alleviate symptoms. Additional treatments may include:

Nutritional supplements to address deficiencies.
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor health and dietary compliance.
Education on how to manage a gluten-free lifestyle effectively.

Why Choose Us?

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, we specialize in diagnosing and managing Celiac Disease, focusing on whole-patient wellness. Our expert gastroenterologists provide tailored advice and support, ensuring patients can successfully transition to and maintain a gluten-free diet. Our commitment to personalized, empathetic care makes us a trusted choice for managing complex digestive disorders.

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, with locations in Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, Salida, Denver, Woodland Park, and Parker, Colorado, the expert team of gastroenterologists works with you to make lifestyle changes and alleviate symptoms associated with celiac disease. Schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates over the phone or online today.

Celiac Disease FAQ

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a common immune disorder in which you can’t eat gluten, a protein found in rye, wheat, and barley because it damages the small intestine. Gluten is sometimes present in supplements, vitamins, lip balm, toothpastes, and skin or hair care products. While there’s no cure for celiac disease, dietary changes can relieve symptoms and allow your intestines to heal.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

Celiac disease and intestinal damage associated with it can contribute to the following signs or symptoms:

Weight loss
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Bloating
Gas
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting

How is celiac disease diagnosed?

To diagnose celiac disease, your gastroenterologist discusses your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and use blood tests to confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor might also complete an endoscopy, a procedure in which they use a scope to view the inside of your digestive tract.

What is the treatment for celiac disease?

To manage symptoms of celiac disease and prevent intestinal damage, your gastroenterologist might recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Dietary Changes: Gluten can lurk in numerous foods, drinks, and cosmetic products. Wheat, barley, and rye are common sources of gluten. Always read food labels to help you steer clear of them.
Vitamin And Mineral Supplements: Taking vitamin supplements helps reduce or prevent nutritional deficiencies associated with celiac disease. Your doctor might recommend oral supplements or injections containing iron, copper, folate, zinc, and vitamins B12, D, or K.
Medications: Taking certain medications helps control intestinal inflammation associated with celiac disease. Your gastroenterologist lets you know which medicines, if any, are suitable for you.

Don’t live with unpleasant symptoms of celiac disease or long-term complications associated with it. Call the office or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates to find out if you have celiac disease and get the treatment you need to prevent complications. We are known for offering world-class, patient-focused care to patients in the Denver, Colorado Springs, and Lone Tree areas and beyond.