Celiac disease

Overview

Don't stop gluten before testing; it can make tests falsely negative.

Gluten damages the small intestine lining in people with celiac disease.

Even small amounts of gluten can cause damage.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Diarrhea or bloating after gluten
• Belly trouble after bread or gluten
• Bloating or gas

Less common

• Tiredness
• Low iron
• Weight loss
• Rash
• Mouth sores
• Itchy rash

Look up a symptom: Belly trouble after bread or gluten · Bloating or gas · Diarrhea · Fatigue · Pale, greasy, or floating stools

When to get medical care

Causes

Genes and gluten.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
• It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

• Family history
• Type 1 diabetes

Possible complications

• Iron deficiency anemia

Diagnosis

Blood test, then biopsy.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• tTG-IgA:
• Endoscopy:

Treatment

Go gluten-free.

Self-care

• Read labels
• See a dietitian
• Avoid cross-contact

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a food and symptom diary.
• Plan ahead for bathroom access when out.
• Ask about a dietitian who knows this condition.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Celiac Disease Foundation: Gluten-free living tips and support.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: May have poor growth.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Heals on a gluten-free diet.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Should my family be tested?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Celiac disease