Celiac disease, commonly known as celiac sprue, is a chronic inflammatory disease of the small intestine. The disease is triggered by dietary exposure to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. When affected individuals ingest foods containing gluten, the lining (mucosa) of the intestine becomes damaged by the body's immune response. When the lining of the intestine is damaged, it cannot absorb water, vitamins and nutrients and cannot make enzymes that are critical to aid in digestion. This can result in weight loss, diarrhea and nutrient deficiencies.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, call (206) 223-2319.
Signs and symptoms of celiac disease may vary in type and intensity. The most common signs and symptoms are:
Your gastroenterologist may suspect celiac disease based on your medical history and a review of your symptoms, and will have you undergo several tests and procedures to help determine a diagnosis. These tests and procedures include:
Currently, the only treatment for symptoms of celiac disease is following a gluten-free diet. Patients with celiac disease often are at risk of malnutrition from the loss of nutrients as foods and liquids make their way through the digestive tract. Specialists within the Digestive Disease Institute at Virginia Mason help patients manage all aspects of their care, including nutritionists to help with nutritional needs.
A nutritionist also can answer questions about what foods and liquids to avoid, such as those that contain wheat, barley and rye. Your health care provider may prescribe vitamin and mineral supplements to correct nutritional deficiencies. Occasionally, corticosteroids (such as prednisone) may also be prescribed for short-term use or if you have celiac disease that does not respond to treatment.
For most celiac patients, following a strict gluten-free diet will stop symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent future damage. For more treatment information or to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, call (206) 223-2319.