Gluten Intolerance Treatment Specialist Q&A

Gluten intolerance, which is mostly known as celiac disease, is an autoimmune issue that interacts with the small intestine. It is caused by an immune reaction to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with gluten intolerance consumes gluten, their immune system incorrectly goes after the lining of their small intestine causing it to get inflamed and causing damage to the villi, small finger-like projections that cover the small intestine and help take in nutrients. This damage can end up causing malabsorption of important nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D, which can cause other health problems.

The symptoms of gluten intolerance can vary widely between individuals and not all people with the condition experience digestive symptoms. Symptoms are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and more. Other symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, skin rash, anemia, and depression.

The only treatment for gluten intolerance is to follow a harsh gluten-free diet, including avoiding all foods and products that have gluten. This will be a challenge, as gluten is in many common foods and ingredients, including bread, pasta, cereal, and baked goods. However, with careful planning and support, it is possible to maintain a healthy and balanced diet while avoiding gluten. If gluten intolerance is not treated it can lead to more serious health complications, including osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible if you suspect you may have gluten intolerance.

Gluten intolerance, also known as celiac disease, affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. However, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is more common, with some estimates suggesting up to 13% of people may experience some level of gluten intolerance. Always remember that gluten intolerance can differ in severity, and some of those have no idea that they even have it. If you think that you could have a gluten intolerance, speak with a healthcare professional right away for a proper diagnosis.

Gluten intolerance, which is usually known as celiac disease, is considered to be an autoimmune disorder that affects roughly 1% of the population. When someone with celiac disease takes in any foods that contain gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of their small intestine.

The symptoms will change from person to person, and they can range from mild to severe. Examples of the symptoms are stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and headaches. In addition, some people with gluten intolerance may experience skin rash, joint pain, anemia, and weight loss.

The onset of symptoms can occur within a few hours to days after consuming gluten. It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms is not necessarily related to the amount of gluten consumed. Sometimes people with celiac disease don’t experience any noticeable symptoms at all. However, even if someone with gluten intolerance doesn’t experience symptoms, their body may still be suffering damage to the small intestine.

If you suspect that you may have gluten intolerance, it’s imperative to speak with your doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment. You might need blood tests or a biopsy to make a proper diagnosis of celiac disease. The only effective treatment for gluten intolerance is to follow a strict gluten-free diet, which involves avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley, and rye.

To diagnose gluten intolerance, also known as celiac disease, a doctor will typically start by conducting a blood test to check for specific antibodies. If you receive a positive test result, the next step is a biopsy of the small intestine to make the diagnosis and assess the extent of damage caused by gluten consumption. An elimination diet may also be recommended to see if symptoms get better once gluten is removed from the diet. It is imperative to contact your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Right now, there is no known way to stop or prevent gluten intolerance. However, some studies suggest that introducing gluten to infants between 4-6 months of age may reduce the risk of developing gluten intolerance later in life. It’s imperative to keep a healthy, balanced diet and contact a healthcare professional if you think you may have gluten intolerance.

Our team at Digestive Disease Care can provide you with the necessary guidance and support you need. Don’t suffer in silence; contact us today for effective and customized treatments. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Jamaica NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY, and BEYOND.