Prevalence in Delhi NCR
Every 1 in 96 tests positive with celiac disease disorder in North India, and globally, affects 1% of the population. It is quite an uncommon disease not only in India but also in Asia. There needs to be more surveys and studies to know the accurate prevalence of celiac disease in India and Asia. However, there was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Delhi NCR Region to study the prevalence of celiac disease in the urban and rural populations.
As per the study, here is the prevalence of Celiac Disease in Delhi NCR Region:
- Participants: Out of 12,573 people, 83% agreed to take part in the celiac disease test.
- Screening Results: Around 5,622 participants showed signs that they might have celiac disease based on initial screening tests.
- Testing: Of those who were screened positive, 2,167 opted for further blood tests to celiac disease diagnosis. Additionally, 712 people who initially tested negative were also tested.
- Prevalence Rates: Overall, the study found that about 1.44% of the participants had positive blood tests for celiac disease, and the actual prevalence of diagnosed celiac disease was around 1.04%. This means that about 1 in every 96 people in the study were diagnosed with celiac disease.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21182543/
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is a type of autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks its tissues as soon as gluten is consumed. The target organ affected is the lining of the small intestine, weakening it in absorbing nutrients from food. The best treatment for celiac disease disorder is to stay on a lifelong gluten-free diet, and that’s what the best gastroenterologists advise individuals diagnosed with celiac disease.
The best food for celiac disease is to maintain a gluten-free diet and keep in touch with the best doctor for celiac disease treatment.
Celiac Disease Symptoms
Celiac disease disorder exhibits different symptoms in adults and children.
Celiac Disease Symptoms in Adults
In celiac disease symptoms for adults, the following are the common digestive issues to look for:
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Extreme fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bloating and gas
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
However, many adults with celiac disease disorder also experience non-digestive symptoms like:
- Anemia, often due to iron deficiency from inadequate absorption.
- Decreased bone density, leading to osteoporosis or softer bones known as osteomalacia.
- Itchy skin or blistering skin condition known as dermatitis herpetiformis.
- Mouth ulcers.
- Chronic headaches and fatigue.
- Neurological symptoms, such as numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet, balance issues, and cognitive challenges.
- Joint pain.
- Reduced spleen function (hyposplenism).
- Elevated liver enzymes.
Celiac Disease Symptoms in Children
Children diagnosed with celiac disease disorder often show more digestive symptoms than adults like:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Ongoing diarrhoea
- Swollen abdomen
- Constipation
- Excess gas
- Pale, foul-smelling stools
The above symptoms may lead to the inability to properly absorb nutrients which can cause various complications, such as:
- Failure to thrive in infants
- Damage to tooth enamel
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Increased irritability
- Short stature
- Delayed puberty
In addition to these, children may also exhibit neurological issues, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, headaches, coordination difficulties, and even seizures.
Causes of Celiac Disease
When gluten is consumed, the immune system recognizes it as a threat and to counter it, starts producing antibodies. This action causes swelling in the gut and damages the villi, leading to symptoms of celiac disease disorder. Apart from gluten, scientists believe that stress on the body and immune system also triggers celiac disease condition.
Celiac disease disorder happens when your body has a negative response to gluten, a protein found in foods like wheat, barley, bread and pasta. Understanding the celiac disease cause is important, and here are some reasons why it might occur:
- Genetics: It often runs in families, so if someone in your family has it, you might be at risk.
- Immune Response: Your immune system mistakenly attacks your own intestines when you eat gluten.
- Environment: Things like getting certain infections or changes in gut bacteria might trigger the disease.
- Other Autoimmune Diseases: If you have other autoimmune issues, like Type 1 diabetes, you might be more likely to get celiac.
- Pregnancy and Birth: Some factors during pregnancy or when you’re born might play a role.
Celiac Disease Treatment
If you are diagnosed with celiac disease disorder, it’s advised to immediately consult the best gastroenterologist for effective treatment.
The main treatment for celiac disease disorder is following a strict gluten-free diet. Here are the key steps involved:
- Gluten-Free Diet: Avoid all foods that contain gluten, including wheat, barley, and rye. Instead, focus on food for celiac disease, like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and gluten-free grains such as rice and quinoa.
- Read Labels: Always check the ingredient section for gluten content. Look for products labelled “gluten-free.”
- Consult the Best Gastroenterologist: Consulting the best gastroenterologist can help you manage your condition effectively. They can guide you on a balanced diet and ensure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
- Supplements: If you have nutritional deficiencies (like iron or calcium), your gastroenterologist might recommend supplements.
- Regular Check-Ups: Regular follow-ups with your gastroenterologist are important to monitor your health and ensure the diet is working.
- Education and Support: Joining support groups or educational programs can help you manage the disease and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
It is very important to understand celiac disease and the way to manage it effectively to improve your quality of life. Sticking to a gluten-free diet and having regular check-ups can really help. For the best care, consult Dr Vikas Singla, the best gastroenterologist in Delhi for celiac disease treatment, to support you in living a healthier, gluten-free life.
Frequently Asked Question
Q-1 What is celiac disease?
Ans – Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine upon consuming gluten, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.