Celiac Disease
If you experience bloating, gas or abdominal pain in response to eating foods containing gluten, you may have celiac disease. 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 Q&A
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, making 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
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.
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 endoscopy, which is a procedure in which they use a special 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, but always read food labels to help you steer clear of it.
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 right 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.