What is the celiac disease? When do you need a celiac disease test?

Time to read 3 min

Celiac disease is a key digestive health condition in which you are gluten sensitive. Your body can produce an immune response when it is exposed to gluten, which is found in several types of cuisines. Chronic exposure to gluten can also lead to damage in the intestines, which can lead to malabsorption of minerals and nutrients.


People with celiac disease can follow a gluten free diet for some relief from the symptoms associated. For celiac disease, a complete test must be performed if you have the symptoms. An endoscope may be inserted through the mouth to the small intestine as a part of the test for celiac disease.

Understanding the symptoms of celiac disease

There are a range of symptoms that you should be mindful of when you have celiac disease. These can be critical signs that you should get a complete celiac test performed. Of the several symptoms associated with digestive health, celiac disease is unique in that you may experience multiple of them.

Constant gas

Your doctor may recommend a celiac disease test if you are constantly experiencing gas after meals. This may be accompanied by a painful sensation in the stomach as well.

Anaemia

Anaemia is a strong sign that you may have celiac disease, especially if you have the other classic symptoms of the disease as well.

Nausea

A sensation of nausea and vomiting may be accompanied by digestive health issues in individuals. You should consider getting tested if you are experiencing nausea for several days to a week.

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is a key sign that you have a digestive health problem, which can be treated with the right medication. Constant diarrhoea signifies that you may be losing vital nutrients and minerals as a part of the waste removal process.

Chronic fatigue

You may also be experiencing chronic fatigue as a key sign of celiac disease, which can occur along with joint pain and body aches as well.

Difficulty concentrating

You can experience significant difficulty in concentrating, as well as being productive throughout the day. If you also have gas and bloating, then you should get tested immediately.


Constant irritability

Your body may be constantly fighting in its immune response to gluten, which can lead to long-term problems with mood management. You may also develop secondary immune issues as well.

Bloating

Bloating after meals can be a critical sign that you have celiac disease. This can be tested by eliminating gluten, and measuring your body's response to the change in your diet.

Sudden change in weight

A chief sign of digestive health issue is weight change. If you have suddenly gained or lost a significant amount of weight, then getting your gut health tested should be your first priority.

Joint pain

Malabsorption, gas, and immune overload, can lead to joint pain and deterioration. You may find that it is more difficult to perform everyday functions as well.

Migraines

You may also experience migraines especially when you have critical digestive health issues. You shouldn't take this symptom lightly, and get tested immediately for celiac disease.


Why you need a celiac disease test

A celiac disease test is the only way to understand whether you have a digestive health issue. You can try different diet and lifestyle changes, but only a blood test will be able to determine the root cause of your digestive health condition.

Blood test

Elevated antibodies can be detected in the case of celiac disease, which is why blood tests are required as a part of initial diagnosis. The TTG IgA test may be recommended for the diagnosis of celiac disease.

Endoscopy

You can also get an endoscopy done as per your doctor's recommendation. This should be able to determine the presence of celiac disease, as well as the potential damage done to your GI and digestive system. A thin flexible tube or endoscope will be inserted through your mouth and go down to your small intestine to capture all the information.


* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).

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