What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease (also known as gluten sensitive enteropathy) is a condition which affects approximately 1% of the UK population. It is caused by foods containing gluten (e.g. Wheat, barley and rye) causing a reaction with the lining of the small bowel and lead to an abnormal immune response. This leads to damage to the lining of the small bowel and can lead to symptoms including:
- Abdominal pain
- Anaemia
- Diarrhoea
- Malabsorption (e.g. Vitamins such as iron, folate, vitamins B12 and D)
- Weight loss
Coeliac disease is diagnosed by measuring specific antibodies in the blood, however, the best (gold standard) test is to undergo a gastroscopy with examination of biopsies taken from the duodenum.
Treatment is based upon accurately making a diagnosis in the first instance and then strictly adhering to a gluten-free diet.
If you are concerned about coeliac disease, you can book a consultation with Dr Goel to discuss investigation and treatment options best suited to you.