CARE ASSISTANT
ELCoeliac Disease
An autoimmune reaction of the gut triggered by gluten.
It is not a simple allergy: in the presence of gluten (wheat, barley, rye), the immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine.
The villi flatten and nutrient absorption drops: chronic diarrhoea, fatigue, anaemia, bone fragility. The treatment is a strict gluten-free diet, for life.
More Informations
An immune reaction to gluten that is controlled through diet.
Definition
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition: gluten (wheat, barley, rye) triggers a reaction that damages the lining of the small intestine. Nutrient absorption drops, with fatigue, bowel changes and sometimes deficiencies.
Causes
A genetic predisposition combined with eating gluten. The disease can appear at any age.
Diagnosis
- Blood test for specific antibodies (anti-transglutaminase).
- Endoscopy with biopsies of the small intestine to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatments
Treatment relies on a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet, guided by a dietitian. The intestinal lining repairs gradually and symptoms improve within weeks to months.
Until the gluten-free diet is well established, loose and urgent stools can catch you out. Flexi absorbent underwear when out and a Mati underpad on the bed reassure without changing habits.
Educational content written for families and caregivers. It does not replace a consultation: a doctor, a continence nurse or a physiotherapist makes the diagnosis and chooses the treatment.