Written by Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the ingestion of gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. Over time, this damage can interfere with nutrient absorption digestive-disease-specialists-houstonand lead to a variety of health problems. If you are experiencing symptoms of celiac disease, it’s essential to consult a digestive disease specialist in Houston to receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
In this blog, we will explore what celiac disease is, its symptoms, how it’s diagnosed, and when to seek care from a gastroenterologist in Houston. We will also discuss how to find reliable gastroenterology practices near me to address your digestive concerns.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the small intestine. This damage to the intestinal lining interferes with the absorption of nutrients and can lead to various gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.
Though celiac disease is a lifelong condition, it can be managed effectively with a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. If you suspect you might have celiac disease, it’s important to seek a diagnosis from a digestive disease specialist in Houston who can help guide you through the diagnostic process and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
The symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely and affect gastroenterologist in Houstondifferent parts of the body. Some of the most common symptoms include:
1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
Diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping
Nausea and vomiting
Gas or flatulence
Fatty stools or malodorous stools
2. Non-Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
Unexplained weight loss or poor growth (in children)
Fatigue or weakness
Anemia (low iron levels)
Skin rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Bone or joint pain
Neurological symptoms such as headaches or tingling in the hands and feet
Infertility or recurrent miscarriages
The wide range of symptoms can make diagnosing celiac disease challenging, as they can overlap with other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, or other gastrointestinal disorders. If you’re experiencing persistent digestive issues or unexplained symptoms, it may be time to consult a gastroenterologist in Houston for further evaluation.
Diagnosis of Celiac Disease
Diagnosing celiac disease typically involves a combination of blood tests, imaging, and sometimes a biopsy. A digestive disease specialist in Houston will guide you through the process.
1. Blood Tests:
The first step in diagnosing celiac disease is a blood test to measure the levels of certain antibodies that are typically elevated in people with the condition. Two common blood tests include:
tTG-IgA (tissue transglutaminase antibody): This is the most commonly used test for celiac disease.
EMA (endomysial antibody): Another test that can confirm the diagnosis.
It’s important to note that these tests are only accurate if you are still consuming gluten in your diet. If you are already on a gluten-free diet, the blood tests may not provide accurate results, as your immune system may not be producing the antibodies.
2. Endoscopy and Biopsy:
If the blood tests indicate the possibility of celiac disease, your gastroenterologist in Houston may recommend an upper endoscopy with a biopsy. This involves inserting a thin tube with a camera down your throat to examine the lining of your small intestine. During the procedure, small samples of the intestinal lining are taken and examined for damage caused by the immune response to gluten.
3. Genetic Testing:
In some cases, genetic testing may be done to check for the presence of genes associated with celiac disease (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8). However, genetic testing alone cannot diagnose celiac disease—it can only rule out the condition.
When to See a Digestive Disease Specialist
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it may be time to visit a digestive disease specialist in Houston. A gastroenterologist in Houston can help determine whether your symptoms are related to celiac disease or another condition. If you have a family history of celiac disease or autoimmune disorders, you may be at a higher risk of developing celiac disease and should consider getting tested even if you don’t have clear symptoms.
Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with IBS or other gastrointestinal issues that haven’t improved with treatment, it may be worth discussing the possibility of celiac disease with your gastroenterology practice near me. Sometimes, the symptoms of IBS overlap with those of celiac disease, so it’s essential to have a specialist evaluate your condition.
Treatment for Celiac Disease
The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This means completely avoiding foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and any products made from these grains. Your digestive disease specialist in Houston will work with you to help you understand how to avoid gluten and ensure you’re receiving adequate nutrition while adhering to your diet.
Nutritional Support:
Many people with celiac disease have difficulty absorbing nutrients due to the damage to the small intestine. Your gastroenterologist in Houston may recommend taking supplements such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and folic acid to correct any nutritional deficiencies.
Follow-Up Care:
Once diagnosed, ongoing care with a digestive disease specialist in Houston is crucial. Regular follow-up visits will ensure that your small intestine heals properly, monitor for complications, and address any new symptoms or concerns that arise. After adopting a gluten-free diet, most people with celiac gastroenterology practices near me disease see significant improvement in their symptoms, and their intestinal lining gradually heals.
Finding the Right Gastroenterology Practice
When seeking treatment for celiac disease, it’s essential to find a reputable gastroenterology practice near me that has experience in diagnosing and managing autoimmune gastrointestinal disorders. Look for a gastroenterologist in Houston who is knowledgeable about celiac disease and can provide comprehensive care, including diagnostic testing, dietary guidance, and follow-up support.
Be sure to research patient reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family, and verify the credentials and specialties of the digestive disease specialists in Houston you are considering.
Conclusion
Celiac disease is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and lifelong management. If you are experiencing gastrointestinal or systemic symptoms that could indicate celiac disease, it’s essential to consult a digestive disease specialist in Houston. A gastroenterologist in Houston will help you navigate the diagnostic process, develop a treatment plan, and offer ongoing support. By adhering to a gluten-free diet and receiving proper care, you can manage celiac disease and lead a healthy, fulfilling life. If you suspect you have celiac disease, don’t wait—reach out to a trusted gastroenterology practice near me for expert care.
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