Expert treatment for celiac disease (CD) in Plano and Dallas
At Gastroenterology Specialists of North Texas, we are pleased to offer expert diagnosis and leading-edge care for celiac disease. Symptoms of CD can vary widely and often mimic the symptoms of more common GI problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For this reason, it’s now recommended that patients with IBS symptoms such as stomach pain and bowel changes (especially diarrhea) receive testing for celiac disease.
Start feeling better today. Call us at (972) 202-7090.
What is Celiac disease
People with celiac disease have a sensitivity to gluten, which causes inflammation of the small intestine and can prevent the absorption of nutrients from food. It’s estimated that only one out of every five Americans with celiac disease have received a diagnosis. While some people with CD have mild symptoms or even none at all, they may still experience inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. If you think you may have celiac disease (or if you have family members who do), our expert gastroenterologists can provide comprehensive testing and treatment.
Testing and treatment options
Testing for celiac disease
The initial screening for CD is typically a specific antibody blood test. It can be used to diagnose someone who has CD or someone who may be at risk for CD but has no symptoms, such as the relative of a patient with CD.
Genetic testing is an option when blood test results are unclear or if symptoms persist while on a gluten-free diet. Keep in mind that simply having the gene for celiac disease doesn’t mean you will get it. Not having the gene is a good way to rule CD out as a possible cause of stomach and digestive problems.
A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of CD. Tiny tissue samples are collected from the wall of the small intestine during an endoscopy.
If you have any concerns about celiac disease or have a family history, talk to your specialist about which tests are right for you.
Treatment for CD
Current treatment for celiac disease calls for patients to be completely gluten-free. Medications to treat CD are rarely prescribed and only for patients who don’t respond to a gluten-free diet. Going gluten-free requires a commitment to reading labels and investigating ingredients. For example, some medications contain gluten ingredients.
We can help guide you to credible sources of information and helpful resources. On a gluten-free diet, your small intestine will begin to heal and your symptoms should diminish.