If you've been diagnosed with celiac disease, you're probably feeling various emotions. You may be scared, confused, or even angry. It's natural to feel this way after learning that you have a lifelong illness. But don't worry - you're not alone. Many people understand what you're going through, and this article explores what to do if diagnosed with celiac disease.
What Is Celiac Disease, And What Are The Symptoms
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. When someone who has celiac disease consumes gluten-containing foods, their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of their small intestine. Celiac disease can cause a wide variety of symptoms, and it's essential to get correctly diagnosed if you think you might have it, left untreated, celiac disease can lead to further health complications.
Common symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and fatigue. Some people also experience joint pain, skin problems, and neurological problems. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's critical to see a doctor to be correctly diagnosed.
How Is Celiac Disease Diagnosed
The diagnosis of celiac disease can be a bit tricky, as there are a variety of symptoms that can indicate it. The best way to diagnose celiac disease is through a blood test, which can detect antibodies to gluten. However, some people don't experience any symptoms, so they may not realize they have celiac disease.
A few different blood tests can be used to diagnose celiac disease. The most common is the anti-gliadin antibody test, which detects antibodies to gluten. Other tests include the anti-endomysial antibody test and the anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody test.
What Are The Treatment Options For Celiac Disease
There is no cure for celiac disease, but the good news is that it can be managed with diet. People with celiac disease must avoid gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye. Avoiding gluten can be hard at first, but plenty of resources are available to help you make the transition. There are also various gluten-free products available now, so you don't have to give up all of your favorite foods.
If you have celiac disease, it's recommended to work with a registered dietitian who can help you create a diet plan that works for you. This may involve cutting out certain foods entirely or simply making minor changes to how you eat. It's also important to be mindful of potential cross-contamination when preparing food, as even tiny amounts of gluten can cause symptoms in someone with celiac disease.
Overall, it's important to remember that although celiac is a severe illness, many people live entire and happy lives despite having it. With the right treatment plan and support from family and friends, you can still enjoy your favorite activities and maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
How To Live With Celiac Disease
The key to living with celiac disease is to be prepared. You'll need to be vigilant about reading food labels and avoiding any foods that contain gluten. Living with celiac may take some time to get used to, but plenty of resources are available to help you make the transition. There are also a variety of gluten-free products available on the market now.
It's also important to be mindful of potential cross-contamination when preparing food, as even tiny amounts of gluten can cause symptoms in someone with celiac disease. If you're not sure whether something is safe to eat, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid it.
Overall, the most important thing to remember is that you're not alone. Many people living with celiac disease have found ways to manage their condition and lead happy healthy lives. With the proper support and treatment plan, you can do the same.
What Are FAQs I Should Ask My Doctor If Diagnosed?
If you've been diagnosed with celiac disease, there are a few recommended questions you should ask your doctor. Here are a few examples:
- What does this diagnosis mean for me?
- What kind of treatment plan do you recommend?
- Are there any foods I need to avoid?
- What are the potential risks if I don't treat my celiac disease?
- How can I find support from others who have celiac disease?
Asking questions is a vital part of managing any chronic illness, and it's no different with celiac disease. You'll be better prepared by getting answers to your questions.
GI Associates & Endoscopy Can Help With Celiac Disease
GI Associates can help with diagnosis treatments and help you take control of your GI health. Contact us if you'd like to see a physician or have more questions. We treat all gastrointestinal issues and disorders with quality, comprehensive care.
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