Coeliac Disease
Patient information leaflets
NHS Borders
Endoscopy Unit
Borders General Hospital
telephone: 01896 826440
Working Hours
Monday - Friday 08:00 to 18:00
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Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where individuals can have an adverse response to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It is typically a healthy and safe food to eat. However, for those with coeliac disease, gluten causes damage to the lining of the small bowel because the body ends up attacking its own cells. This can cause impaired nutrient absorption from food, contribute to symptoms and cause long-term health complications.
Approximately 1 in 100 people in the UK have coeliac disease.
Cause:
The exact cause of coeliac disease is not fully understood as it involves a complex interaction between genes and environmental factors.
Genetics play an important role, therefore being a first-degree relative of someone with coeliac disease increase the risk of developing the condition.
Many different environmental factors can trigger the development of the condition in genetically predisposed individuals. Having coeliac disease increases the risk of developing other autoimmune conditions.
Villi:
Villi are finger-like structures, protruding parts of inner layer of small. They increase the surface area of the small bowel for absorption of nutrients.
How can Coeliac Disease affect the body?
In coeliac disease gluten, induced damage leads to the villi in the small bowel becoming completely flat. This is called ‘villous atrophy’. This reduces the bowels surface area, meaning there is a reduced absorption of nutrients, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies in the body. Avoiding gluten allows the villi to recover over time. However, coeliac disease is a lifelong condition and requires a lifelong gluten-free diet to keep it treated.
Symptoms:
Physical Discomfort-
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Change in bowel habit.
Shortage of Nutrients-
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Osteoporosis
- Anaemia
- Fatigue
Other Complications-
- Problems with nerves to extremities – numbness and tingling to the hands and feet.
- Brain fog
- Balance problems
- Mouth ulcers
- Infertility
- Dermatitis herpetiformis (skin condition)
Treatment:
Gluten free diet.
Further Information: