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Links to further information:
http://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-topics/coeliac-disease/

Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease is a condition in which the immune system in a person’s intestine (gut) reacts to a protein called gluten. Common sources of gluten are foods containing wheat, barley or rye. The immune reaction makes part of the gut inflamed, and this can make it difficult for the person to absorb nutrients from their food.

Symptoms vary from none, indigestion, diarrhoea, or constipation to tiredness, weight loss, bone thinning, reproductive problems or delayed puberty. Symptoms may be similar to other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, so a high level of suspicion is important. Most people with coeliac disease have antibodies that show on a blood test. Once the diagnosis of coeliac disease is made, the treatment is to avoid all gluten - known as a gluten-free diet.

Key Points:

1. Coeliac disease is common, occurring in about 1 in 100 people
2. Diagnosis can be difficult and most people have not been diagnosed yet
3. Coeliac disease can appear in any age group
4. The classic triad of symptoms is diarrhoea, weight loss and iron/folate deficiency
5. Family history is important. If any of your parents or siblings have coeliac disease, you have a one in 10 chance of having it too. Discuss with your doctor.

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