Celiac Disease

Abstract

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that is known specifically for causing inflammation of the mucosa in the small intestine. Through multiple diagnostic and screening tools such as small intestinal biopsy sample, serological testing, and human leukocyte antigen testing, healthcare providers can diagnose this disease that contains components related to genetic predisposition and intake of gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. There are some who believe that having an autoimmune disease may predispose one to acquiring another disease. With patients experiencing mostly diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss, the implementation of a gluten-free diet is the treatment that healthcare providers recommend. Through monitoring gluten intake and providing nutritional supplementation, those diagnosed with celiac disease can lead a relatively normal life without complications. With celiac disease affecting all age ranges in the population, and with a documented higher frequency, there is a growing awareness in society that can be easily seen in grocery stores, restaurants, and food manufacturers.

Health Coaching the Worker With Celiac Disease

“…This disease is known to cause inflammation of the mucosa in the small intestine; however, it can also affect the skin, joints, uterus, brain, heart, and other organs (Martin, 2007). Individuals at increased risk for celiac disease are those with another autoimmune disorder, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Turner syndrome, or Down's syndrome (Ryan & Grossman, 2011). Randolph (2012) stated gluten is found in a number of foods such as Kamut®, rye, spelt, barley, wheat, wheat-related grains, sauces, soups, candies, marinades, and processed meats.…”

“…This disease is known to cause inflammation of the mucosa in the small intestine; however, it can also affect the skin, joints, uterus, brain, heart, and other organs (Martin, 2007). Individuals at increased risk for celiac disease are those with another autoimmune disorder, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Turner syndrome, or Down's syndrome (Ryan & Grossman, 2011).…”

Gluten Content of the Top 200 Medications: Follow-Up to the Influence of Gluten on a Patient's Medication Choices

“…C eliac sprue is an autoimmune disease affecting the digestive system and occurs when gluten proteins, commonly found in wheat, barley, and rye, are not fully digested, stimulating an inflammatory process in the small intestine. 1–3 Symptoms can appear at any point in life and can range from gastrointestinal upset, headache, low weight gain (weight loss), osteoporosis, depression, and infertility. 1–4 Due to the variety of symptoms, celiac sprue is often underdiagnosed.…”

“…1–3 Symptoms can appear at any point in life and can range from gastrointestinal upset, headache, low weight gain (weight loss), osteoporosis, depression, and infertility. 1–4 Due to the variety of symptoms, celiac sprue is often underdiagnosed. 1,2 Current estimates find that the disease affects 1 out of every 100 to 133 Americans.…”

“…Treatment for celiac sprue includes complete avoidance of gluten in products that are ingested or come into contact with the mouth, including medications, lip balm, and Play-Doh. 1–7 Ingestion of amounts as small as 30 to 50 mg may illicit an adverse event in patients. 8 However, identification of gluten in products can be cumbersome.…”