Celiac Sprue Disease & Symptoms

Celiac sprue is an auto-immune disorder that affects the small intestine and other portions of the digestive system. Celiac sprue has a strong genetic component, and it can affect people from infancy on up to old age. Many people lack the gastrointestinal symptoms of diarrhea, bloating, and pain, but are instead diagnosed using blood tests. While celiac sprue has no cure, the symptoms can be avoided by following a strict, wheat-free diet.

Celiac Disease Cause

• Celiac disease is caused by a reaction to the protein gliadin, which is found in wheat and other gluten-containing foods. When people with this condition eat gluten, a protein in their intestines modifies it, which then causes an activation of the immune system.

Cause of Symptoms

• When the immune system becomes activated by the gliadin protein, it causes inflammation of the tissue in the small intestine. As a result, portions of the small intestine tissue, which are specially designed for nutrient adsorption, become damaged; as a result, the portions become smaller. It is this immunological process responsible for many of the gastrointestinal symptoms of celiac sprue disease.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Diarrhea is an early symptom of celiac sprue. This diarrhea will be pale, watery and foul-smelling. Abdominal bloating and pain may also occur. In some cases, the patient will also develop lactose intolerance.

Nutrition Symptoms

• Because celiac sprue affects portions of the small intestine involved in absorbing nutrients, many of the symptoms of celiac sprue disease can result from malnutrition. As a result, patients with celiac sprue may have sudden weight loss. In addition, they may not absorb iron properly, which can lead to anemia. They are also prone to osteoporosis because of trouble absorbing calcium and vitamin D.

Other Symptoms

• Celiac disease can also lead to an increased risk of having other diseases. Patients with celiac disease are at risk for bacterial infections, dermatitis and neurological problems, including seizures and problems with movement. In addition, grains other than wheat (such as barley and rye) can also create symptoms of celiac sprue.