Celiac Disease

Celiac disease risk factors

Anyone can develop celiac disease, and you can start to have symptoms at any age. However, some people are more likely than others to develop the disease. Risk factors include:

• Autoimmune disorder: If you have another autoimmune disorder, such as Type 1 diabetes, Addison’s disease or multiple sclerosis, you are more at risk.
• Chromosomal disorders: You are more likely to be affected if you have Down syndrome, Turner syndrome or Williams syndrome.
• Race and ethnicity: In the US, Celiac disease is more common among white people than those from other racial and ethnic backgrounds.
• Family history: You have around a 1 in 10 chance of developing celiac disease if a close relative (such as a parent or sibling) has the disease.
• Infection: Viral infections can sometimes trigger autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease.
• Pregnancy and childbirth: Some women find symptoms develop or get worse after giving birth. This could be linked to stress.
• Sex: More women than men have celiac disease.

Celiac disease complications

If you have celiac disease, your body may not get all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. This can increase your chance of developing other health conditions. In some cases, your small intestine becomes so severely damaged that it cannot absorb the nutrients you need even when following a gluten-free diet.

Complications of celiac disease include:

• Anemia: Often caused by an iron deficiency, anemia occurs when your body does not produce enough red blood cells.
• Cancer of the small intestine: Celiac disease increases your risk for this rare form of cancer.
• Infertility or reproductive issues: Studies suggest a link between celiac disease and reproductive problems and pregnancy complications.
• Liver damage: In some people, celiac disease can lead to liver injury or liver failure without a clear cause, a condition which may be classified as cryptogenic cirrhosis.
• Osteoporosis: People with celiac disease often lack vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin D. Osteoporosis can develop if you don’t get enough calcium and vitamin D.

How is celiac disease diagnosed?

Getting an accurate diagnosis for celiac disease involves several steps. Your doctor will look at your health history, symptoms, and use specific tests to confirm whether gluten is causing your symptoms.

Together, these steps help your healthcare team confirm a diagnosis of celiac disease or rule it out. Getting a proper diagnosis is important for managing your symptoms, preventing complications, and improving your overall health with the right treatment plan.

Celiac disease treatment

Living with celiac disease means making important lifestyle changes and staying vigilant about your health. Since celiac disease causes your immune system to react to gluten, the main treatment is to avoid gluten completely. This helps prevent damage to your small intestine and eases symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea and fatigue.

Treatment also involves managing any related health issues, such as nutritional deficiencies or skin conditions. With the right diet, medication and ongoing care, many people with celiac disease lead healthy, active lives. Your healthcare team will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and help you understand how to live well with celiac disease every day.

Frequently asked questions