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Celiac Disease
An immune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine. Tracking your symptoms and connecting with others who understand can help you manage day to day.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
When to seek help
See a doctor for ongoing diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or signs of anemia such as severe fatigue.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which eating gluten damages the small intestine. The only treatment is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet.
Symptoms
- Diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- A skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Causes
An immune reaction to gluten damages the small intestine's lining. It runs in families and is triggered by genes plus gluten in the diet.
Types
- Classic celiac disease (digestive symptoms)
- Non-classic celiac disease (mild or non-digestive symptoms)
- Silent celiac disease (no symptoms but intestinal damage)
Diagnosis
Diagnosed with blood tests for specific antibodies, confirmed by a biopsy of the small intestine. Do not stop eating gluten before testing.
Treatment
A strict, lifelong gluten-free diet - avoiding wheat, barley, and rye - lets the intestine heal. There is no medicine that replaces this.
Living with it
- Follow a strict gluten-free diet - even small amounts cause damage
- Read labels; gluten hides in many processed foods
- Watch for cross-contamination
- See a dietitian who knows celiac disease
- Get follow-up testing to confirm healing
Complications
- Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies
- Osteoporosis
- Infertility
- Increased risk of some intestinal cancers (if untreated)
Frequently asked questions
Is celiac disease the same as a wheat allergy?
No. Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten; a wheat allergy is a different immune response. Both require different management.
Join the Celiac Disease community
Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with celiac disease. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.