Celiac Disease Highlighted in Autoimmune Awareness Month

ZANESVILLE, OH – March is Autoimmune Disease Awareness Month. Many autoimmune conditions, like Celiac Disease, are often invisible. But for those living with them, the effects can be constant and life changing.

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects how the body responds to gluten. When someone with Celiac consumes gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine. Even the smallest amounts can trigger damage.

“If someone with Celiac ingests gluten, which is in the form or wheat, barley, rye, the body starts to attack the small intestine called the Duodenum. That will cause decreased nutrient absorption, iron deficiency anemia, and other medical conditions.” Alexandra Davies, D.O. from Genesis HealthCare System, Gastroenterology said.

Because symptoms aren’t always visible, the condition is often misunderstood. Those living with Celiac may manage fatigue, brain fog, nausea or vomiting, joint pain, and nutritional deficiencies.

“If I were to eat gluten, I would just throw it up until it’s all out of my system. Then, I would be sluggish for the next couple weeks. I’d notice a drop of energy.” Hayden Carrier, an Ohio University Student living with Celiac Disease, said.

Managing Celiac Disease involves more than simply changing eating habits. Treatment requires lifelong vigilance, including avoiding cross-contamination and carefully checking food labels.

“It’s more than just strict dieting. You have to do it, or you won’t perform to your best ability.” Carrier said.

Without proper management, celiac disease can lead to more serious long-term health complications over time.

“The more people are exposed to gluten when they have Celiac Disease, can causes them to develop vitamin D deficiency, leading to osteoporosis, iron deficiency anemia, and there’s also a rare form of lymphoma that can develop.” Dr. Davies said.

Awareness and education are key, as autoimmune diseases like Celiac affect millions of people. Health experts say early diagnosis and consistent management can make a life-changing difference for those living with autoimmune diseases.