Celiac Disease FAQ

The following are frequently asked questions about celiac disease (CD), as well as a few relevant definitions. The questions that I have written answers for—thus far—contain a link. The other questions are a sampling of the questions that will be answered in the coming weeks and months.

This autoimmune disease is serious business. If you have it, you want to know it. You can take steps to protect the quality of your life and your longevity. You can also do the same for your family because a genetic susceptibility to this disease is required for its development.

A Few Definitions

For definitions of the different types of CD, as well as definitions of related terms, see Celiac Disease Definitions.

Here's a short list:

CD definition – A potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine in response to gluten consumption. People with this disease must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. Otherwise, they risk serious complications to their health, such as nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, infertility, and even intestinal cancer.

celiac definition – People with this disease are often referred to as “celiacs,” similar to how people with diabetes are often referred to as “diabetics.”

General Questions About Celiac Disease

How common is CD?

What are other current statistics for this disease?

What causes this disease?

What are the risk factors?

Is this disease genetic?

What is the celiac gene?

What are common complications with this disease?

Questions About Celiac Signs and Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of this disease?

What are common celiac symptoms in children?

What characterizes this disease in adults?

Is undigested food in the stool a symptom of this disease?

What are malabsorption symptoms?

Questions About Celiac Tests

What is the best screening blood test for this disease?

What testing for celiac disease is required for diagnosis?

Can 23andMe.com determine my genetic risk for this disease?

Is the celiac disease endoscopy always necessary?

Is there a celiac test I can perform at home?

After a celiac diagnosis, are there other tests my doctor should perform?

Questions About CD Treatment

What does treatment for this disease require?

Does the gluten-free diet cure this disease?

As a newly diagnosed celiac, what can I expect and what celiac foods I can eat?

What happens if I cheat on the celiac diet?

What can be done to treat heartburn that is caused by this disease?

What are nutritional considerations for healing from and managing this disease?

Should the autoimmune aspect of this disease be treated, or is going gluten free enough?

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