Coeliac UK Advice

Coeliac disease (pronounced see-liac) is an autoimmune disease. Gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye triggers an immune reaction in people with coeliac disease. This means that eating gluten damages the lining of the small intestine. Other parts of the body may be affected.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of coeliac disease vary from person to person and can range from very mild to severe.
Possible symptoms may include:
• bloating, pains in the stomach, nausea, diarrhoea, excessive wind, heartburn, indigestion, and/or constipation
• any combination of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency
• tiredness and/or headaches
• weight loss (but not in all cases)
• mouth ulcers
• hair loss (alopecia)
• skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis (DH))
• tooth enamel problems
• osteoporosis
• depression
• infertility
• repeated miscarriages
• joint and/or bone pain
• neurological (nerve) problems such as ataxia (poor muscle co-ordination) and neuropathy (numbness and tingling in the hands and feet).

Common confusion
Some symptoms may be mistaken as Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or wheat intolerance. Stress or getting older can also be a cause of confusion.
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be underweight or have lost weight to have coeliac disease. Most people are of normal weight or even overweight at diagnosis.

What should I do if I think I have coeliac disease?

If you think you or your child has coeliac disease, you must keep eating gluten and speak to your GP for advice. You can also contact Coeliac UK on; 0845 305 2060 (Open 10am-4pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 11am-4pm on Wednesday).

If you, or your child, are medically diagnosed with coeliac disease or DH, you can join Coeliac UK as a Member. A parent/carer of a child under 16 with coeliac disease can join as a Member on their behalf. As a Member you can receive invaluable help and information about managing a gluten-free diet. To join Coeliac UK call 0845 305 2060 or visit www.coeliac.org.uk/members

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