Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the small intestine, is normally a condition you inherit and runs in families. The condition affects approximately 1 percent of people in the United States and is triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
The small intestine, which is responsible for absorbing nutrients from food, is damaged by this immune process, and this can lead to other health concerns. People with celiac disease are at increased risk for malnutrition, osteoporosis, small bowel cancers, depression, and infertility. Yet only about 30 percent of people with celiac disease are properly diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation.
To schedule an appointment with Christopher Cao, MD, a celiac disease specialist, call 212-241-4299 or schedule online.
In this Q&A, Christopher Cao, MD, Assistant Professor, Gastroenterology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, who treats patients and conducts research on celiac disease, explains how to know if you have this condition and how to optimize your diet and improve your quality of life.
How do I know if should screen for celiac disease? What screenings are available?
Celiac disease may produce various gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. Common gastrointestinal symptoms include abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea or vomiting. You may also experience a skin rash, joint pains, fatigue, or weight loss. As celiac disease is hereditary, it is important that family members of individuals with celiac disease be screened. Individuals with known autoimmune disorders should also be screened for celiac disease. Screening for celiac disease uses a combination of blood work, genetic testing, and endoscopic evaluation. These services are offered through the Mount Sinai Celiac Disease Program.
What foods should I eat or avoid if I have celiac disease?
The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, as there are no medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the management of celiac disease. By eliminating gluten from their diet, individuals with celiac disease can prevent further damage to their small intestine and alleviate their symptoms. Dieticians specializing in celiac disease will work closely with patients to develop personalized gluten-free dietary plans to ensure optimal health and well-being.
How do I prevent a flare up?
The lifelong management of celiac disease with a gluten-free diet can be difficult and should not be understated, as even tiny traces of gluten may trigger a reaction. The Mount Sinai Celiac Disease Center is dedicated in providing comprehensive and compassionate care for those with celiac disease. Our team consists of experienced gastroenterologists, dietitians, and health care professionals who can help support individuals through their celiac journey—from obtaining an accurate diagnosis to optimizing a gluten-free diet and improving their quality of life.