Coeliac disease is not a food allergy or a simple gluten intolerance. It is an autoimmune condition in which eating gluten triggers the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine.
Over time, this damage prevents the body from absorbing nutrients properly, leading to malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and a wide range of symptoms throughout the body.
Coeliac disease can develop at any age, from early childhood to later adulthood.
Here are 5 key facts you should know.
1. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition
Coeliac disease is not a food allergy or a lifestyle choice. It is an autoimmune disease in which eating gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye) causes the immune system to damage the lining of the small intestine.
This damage prevents proper absorption of nutrients and can affect the whole body.
2. Symptoms of coeliac disease vary widely
Common coeliac disease symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Many people also experience non-digestive symptoms such as fatigue, iron-deficiency anaemia, headaches, mouth ulcers, joint pain, anxiety, or depression. Children may have delayed growth or puberty.
3. Persistent symptoms are a reason to worry
You should consider coeliac disease if symptoms last for several weeks, keep returning, or affect your daily life.
Ongoing digestive problems, unexplained vitamin deficiencies, or long-term tiredness should not be ignored—especially if you have a family history of coeliac disease or other autoimmune conditions.
4. See a doctor before cutting out gluten
If you suspect coeliac disease, it is important to see a doctor before starting a gluten-free diet.
Coeliac disease diagnosis usually begins with a blood test that checks for specific antibodies linked to gluten exposure. If results suggest coeliac disease, a referral to a specialist may be made for further testing, which can include an intestinal biopsy.
A confirmed diagnosis is essential before starting a gluten-free diet, as coeliac disease requires lifelong management.
5. Treatment is lifelong but highly effective
The only treatment for coeliac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. Once gluten is removed, the gut can heal and symptoms usually improve.
When should you worry about coeliac disease?
You should consider coeliac disease as a possibility if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, especially if they cannot be explained by another condition.
Warning signs that may indicate coeliac disease include:
- Chronic digestive symptoms that do not improve
- Unexplained anaemia or vitamin deficiencies
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Ongoing bloating or abdominal discomfort
- Poor growth or delayed puberty in children
Having a family history of coeliac disease or other autoimmune conditions also increases your risk.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you experience:
- Long-term digestive symptoms
- Symptoms that affect your daily life or mental wellbeing
- Signs of malnutrition or unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing symptoms despite dietary changes
It is important not to remove gluten from your diet before seeing a doctor, as this can affect test results and delay an accurate diagnosis.
