Coeliac Disease Information and Treatment

Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue. Celiac disease is an inflammatory condition of the tiny intestine precipitated by the ingestion of wheat in individuals with certain genetic makeups. It can occur at any age. Coeliac disease is result by a reaction of the gut to gluten. Gluten is part of certain foods mainly foods made from wheat, barley and rye. It is create chiefly in foods but may also be in other products like medicines, vitamins and even the glue on stamps and envelopes. Symptoms may occur in the digestive system, or in other parts of the body.

One person might have diarrhea and abdominal pain, while other person may be irascible or depressed. Irritability is one of the most generally symptoms in children. Other possible symptoms include mouth ulcers, vomiting and abdominal pain. An itchy rash on the elbows and knees, called dermatitis herpetiformis, may occur. Children with coeliac disease may also have slow growth or weight loss, irritability, a swollen abdomen and delayed development. People without symptoms are noiseless at risk for the complications of celiac disease, including malnutrition. The longer a person goes undiagnosed and untreated, the greater the chance of developing malnutrition and other complications.

Anemia, defered growth, and weight loss are signs of malnutrition. The body is just not getting enough nutrients. Malnutrition is a sedate problem for children because they require adequate nutrition to develop properly. The only effective treatment of CD is strict lifelong complete avoidance of gluten found in cereals such potatoes, rice and maize, nuts and red meat, chicken, fish, eggs and dairy products. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and regular weight-bearing exercise are essential to help prevent osteoporosis from developing. In addition, there are some medications and vitamin supplements that hold gluten.

Treatment typically includes calcium supplement intake along with estrogen replacement. Corticosteroids such as prednisone have been used successfully in treating some patients with refractory celiac disease. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs are potent medications with potentially serious side effects. Immuno-suppressive drugs such as azathioprine and cyclosporine also have been used. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a methods of delivering calories, carbohydrates, amino acids, and fat in liquid solutions via a catheter that has been put and secured into a vein.