1 in 100 people in the UK have coeliac disease, but only 36% of people having a formal diagnosis, leaving thousands of people living with often debilitating symptoms, but with no clear pathway for treatment .
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by a reaction to gluten. It can develop at any stage of life, although is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 60.
The symptoms of coeliac disease can vary widely between individuals and often overlap with other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This can lead to delays in diagnosis, with many people thought to have coeliac disease for around ten years before receiving the correct diagnosis. Whilst coeliac disease is a lifelong condition with no cure, eliminating gluten from the diet can significantly alleviate symptoms and, in most cases, completely prevent further issues. Diagnosis is the first and most important step to take.
What are the Symptoms of Coeliac Disease?
For some individuals, the symptoms of coeliac disease may be relatively mild, whilst for others, the symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and lead to serious health and lifestyle consequences. If you consistently experience any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist.
- Severe or occasional diarrhoea, excessive wind and / or constipation
- Persistent or unexplained nausea and vomiting
- Recurrent stomach pains, cramping and bloating
- Anaemia
- Tiredness
- Sudden or unexplained weight loss
- Mouth ulcers
- Skin rashes
- Tooth enamel problems
- Bone density issues
- Nerve problems, such as numbness in hands and feet
(Women with coeliac disease may also have difficulties conceiving and can experience repeated miscarriages. )
The Importance of Getting a Diagnosis
Whilst the classic symptoms of coeliac disease are related to the gut (such as diarrhoea), it has more recently been discovered that individuals with coeliac disease can experience a broader range of health issues, which may worsen or become permanent if left untreated.
People with untreated coeliac disease are twice as likely to get heart disease, and four times as likely to develop small bowel cancer . Other health conditions that can be caused by untreated coeliac disease include:
- Cardiovascular health issues – such as myopathy
- Bone health issues – such as osteoporosis
- Reproductive health issues – subfertility, miscarriage and early menopause
- Mental health issues – depression and anxiety
- Brain health issues – neuropathy, ataxia and epilepsy
How do you get a diagnosis of Coeliac Disease?
A blood test is typically one of the first steps in diagnosing coeliac disease, as it detects antibodies produced by the body’s reaction to gluten. You may be advised to have a biopsy to aid the diagnosis and to look for damage to the stomach. Your doctor will guide you through the diagnostic process and advise on the appropriate next steps.
How is Coeliac Disease treated?
Simply put, avoiding all food and drink containing gluten (or traces of gluten) will stop the symptoms. Gluten is in a huge range of ingredients, so having some expert input from a dietician or bowel health specialist will help you adapt to a new way of eating. As coeliac disease can remain untreated for several years, it is not uncommon for people to have additional health issues, such as anaemia, that may need proactive treatment.
Haven Medical has a team of GPs (appointments available on the same day or next day) and specialist doctors (appointments available within approximately a week). With a wide range of blood tests and diagnostic investigations, we can help you find the answers you and your loved ones need, as well as personalised treatment plans.
Sources
Getting diagnosed – How to start your journey to a healthier life – Coeliac UK