What causes celiac disease?

The cause of celiac disease is not known. But celiac disease commonly runs in families and in people with certain genetic disorders and autoimmune diseases. A blood test can help diagnose the disease and determine whether you need a gluten-free diet.

What are the risk factors for celiac disease?

A number of factors increase your risk of developing celiac disease including genetic disorders and autoimmune diseases. Not all people who are at risk for celiac disease will develop the condition. Risk factors include:

  • Autoimmune liver disease

  • Autoimmune thyroid disease

  • Being of northern European descent

  • Down syndrome

  • Family history of celiac disease

  • Microscopic colitis (inflammation of the colon)

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Turner syndrome (a female-only condition caused by a missing or incomplete sex chromosome)

  • Type 1 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a genetic disorder that affects your digestive system and damages your small intestines. If you have celiac disease, your body is sensitive to gluten and your immune system reacts abnormally to foods you eat that contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in foods and products that contain certain grains, such as wheat, oats, barley and rye.... Read more about celiac disease introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

The symptoms of celiac disease can be vague and similar to other conditions that affect the digestive system, such as diverticulosis or irritable bowel syndrome. Your symptoms may be mild or severe, and they may vary depending on the amount of gluten you eat. Symptoms of celiac disease affect your small intestines and can affect other parts of your body. Some people with celiac disease experience no symptoms.... Read more about celiac disease symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is celiac disease treated?

The primary treatment for celiac disease is eliminating gluten from your diet. Common foods that contain gluten include cereals, breads, pasta, and other foods or products that contain wheat, barley, oats or rye. Less obvious sources of gluten include:... Read more about celiac disease treatments

Medical Reviewer: Williams, Robert, MD Last Annual Review Date: Jan 10, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

Your Guide to Celiac Disease


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