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Coeliac disease

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Immune system attacks gut when eating gluten
  • Damages small intestine, affecting nutrient absorption
  • Managed by a strict gluten-free diet
  • Can cause various gut and general symptoms

Overview

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues when you consume gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, present in many common foods like bread, cereals, and some sauces. This immune reaction damages the lining of your small intestine, which is crucial for absorbing nutrients from food. As a result, your body struggles to get the vitamins and minerals it needs, leading to various symptoms and potential health problems. There is no cure for coeliac disease, but strictly following a gluten-free diet is the main treatment. This helps to heal the gut, control symptoms, and prevent long-term complications.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Diarrhoea (often unpleasant smell)
  • Stomach aches
  • Bloating and gas
  • Indigestion
  • Constipation
  • Tiredness (fatigue)
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Itchy rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
  • Problems getting pregnant
  • Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy)
  • Coordination and balance issues (ataxia)
  • Delayed growth in children

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Family history of coeliac disease
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Autoimmune thyroid disease
  • Down's syndrome
  • Turner syndrome

Diagnosis

  • Testing for people with symptoms
  • Testing for those with increased risk
  • Testing for first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children)

Treatment & Management

  • Strictly follow a gluten-free diet
  • Avoid all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye
  • Consult with a dietitian for dietary guidance
  • Nutritional supplements for deficiencies

Prevention

  • Strictly adhere to a gluten-free diet to prevent complications
  • Seek early diagnosis if symptoms appear
  • Regular medical check-ups to monitor health
  • Carefully read food labels to identify hidden gluten

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Coeliac disease:

Coeliac Disease Treatment

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Contents

Quick Info

Affects

Small intestine

Prevalence

At least 1 in 100 people

Diagnosis

Medical tests

Treatment

Strict gluten-free diet

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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