Celiac Disease
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Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body has an immune response to eating gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye).
This immune response attacks the small intestine, which damages the lining of the small intestine over time. When the small intestine’s lining is damaged, nutrients are unable to be absorbed into the body (malabsorption).
Symptoms
There are many symptoms of celiac disease, and the symptoms can vary in adults and children. Some individuals with celiac disease have no symptoms at all.
Some symptoms include diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, constipation, headaches, and depression/anxiety. Additionally, children with celiac disease may experience delayed puberty/growth.
Treatment
The only way to manage celiac disease is to eliminate gluten from your diet. After starting a gluten-free diet, the symptoms will begin to improve and lessen.
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