The Hidden Struggles of Living with Celiac Disease (Gluten Intolerance)

Celiac disease is not merely a food intolerance or allergy.

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It is an autoimmune condition where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system attacks the villi-small, finger-like projections in the intestine responsible for nutrient absorption. Over time, this damage can lead to malabsorption and a variety of health complications.

● Symptoms

Celiac disease presents with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary between individuals. Common symptoms include:

● Digestive issues: diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain.

● Fatigue: Persistent tiredness caused by malabsorption of nutrients.

● Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss despite a normal diet.

● Iron-deficiency anaemia: A common consequence of poor iron absorption.

● Skin rash: Dermatitis herpetiformis, an itchy and blistering skin condition, is associated with celiac disease.

● Neurological symptoms: Headaches, depression, anxiety, and peripheral neuropathy.