Ms Noelle Power
Coeliac Disease
Coeliac patients suffer from a disease in which the small intestine is oversensitive to gluten, leading to difficulty in digesting food.
Causes of Coeliac Disease
The exact cause of coeliac disease is not fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a crucial role in its development.
Genetic Factors
A strong genetic component is associated with coeliac disease. People with certain genetic markers, specifically HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8, are more susceptible to developing the condition. If a first-degree family member (parent, sibling, or child) has coeliac disease, the risk of developing the condition increases.
Environmental Factors
Gluten consumption is the primary environmental factor that triggers coeliac disease. Exposure to gluten can lead to an abnormal immune response in genetically predisposed individuals, causing the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine.
Other Factors
Some viral infections, early introduction of gluten into a baby’s diet, and certain medical conditions may contribute to the development of coeliac disease. However, these factors alone are unlikely to cause the condition and are usually only relevant in individuals with a genetic predisposition.
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease presents a wide range of symptoms, and they can vary greatly from person to person.
Digestive Problems
Diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
Fatigue
Due to the inability to absorb essential nutrients.
Skin Disorders
Dermatitis herpetiformis, a chronic skin rash.
Anemia
A lack of iron and other essential nutrients.
Joint Pain
Arthritis and joint inflammation.
Osteoporosis
Weak, brittle bones due to calcium and vitamin D malabsorption.
Neuropathy
Numbness and tingling in the extremities.
Treatments for Coeliac Disease
The only effective treatment for coeliac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. When individuals with coeliac disease eliminate gluten from their diet, the inflammation in the small intestine usually subsides, and the damaged intestinal lining can gradually heal. Adhering to a gluten-free diet can significantly improve the quality of life for those with coeliac disease.
For patients suffering with coeliac disease, eating the right foods is essential and diet can have a dramatic impact on their quality of life.
Whether you have been diagnosed with coeliac disease or feel you may be showing signs of intolerance to gluten products such as pasta, bread, cakes and cookies, our team of expert Dietitians can help you develop a dietary programme to suit your needs.
Here are the key aspects of managing coeliac disease through a gluten-free diet:
Education
Learning about which foods and products contain gluten is essential. Reading food labels carefully and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals and support groups can be immensely helpful.
Gluten-Free Foods
Fortunately, there are now a wide variety of gluten-free products available in grocery stores. These include gluten-free flours, bread, pasta, and snacks.
Cross-Contamination
Avoiding cross-contamination is crucial. This means preventing gluten-free foods from coming into contact with gluten-containing items in the kitchen. Separate utensils, cutting boards, and cookware are often recommended.
Monitoring
Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals is important to assess the healing process of the small intestine and ensure that the diet is effective.
Lifestyle Adjustments
People with coeliac disease may need to adjust their lifestyle to accommodate their dietary needs. This includes being cautious when dining out, traveling, and socializing.
Treatment
In some cases, individuals may need additional medical treatment to manage coeliac disease-related complications, such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies. It’s crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to address these specific concerns.
Coeliac Disease – The Good News
Coeliac disease is a complex autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption in genetically susceptible individuals. While the disease can cause a wide range of symptoms and complications, the good news is that its management primarily involves adhering to a strict gluten-free diet. Awareness and education are key to effectively managing this condition, and with the right support and resources, individuals with coeliac disease can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Kingsbridge Private Hospital work closely with a team of Dietitians who are specialised in dietary requirements and nutrition for Coeliac. They work with each patient on an individual basis to teach them how to deal with a gluten free diet in their everyday regime and incorporate the correct amount of nutrition in their new dietary programme.
Costs
Costs can vary depending on the procedure and your personal treatment plan. We’ll give you a clear price guide upfront and explain what’s included.
Flexible payment options are available to help spread the cost. Our team is here to answer questions and help you choose the best way to pay.
Steps to get started
Our team will support you through every stage, from your first enquiry to your recovery.
If you’re using health insurance
Check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.
If you’re paying for treatment yourself or using a payment plan
We’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.
Book an Appointment
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