Celiac disease is a well-known autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Common symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, constipation, gas, and diarrhea. However, there is a lesser-known form of the disease called “silent celiac” where individuals experience no obvious symptoms. In this article, GI specialists shed light on silent celiac, its diagnosis, treatment, and what to be aware of.
Silent celiac, also known as asymptomatic celiac, is when a person has celiac disease but does not exhibit any symptoms. Although they may have physical indications of the disease, such as small bowel inflammation, they do not experience the typical gastrointestinal issues. This form of celiac is rare since most patients develop GI symptoms due to malabsorption caused by intestinal damage.
It is important to note that some individuals with silent celiac may not realize they are experiencing mild symptoms. They may attribute symptoms like headaches, joint aches, chronic sinus problems, or muscle aches to their normal everyday life rather than celiac disease. Upon adopting a gluten-free diet, they may discover that these symptoms improve.
Given the lack of clear symptoms, silent celiac often goes undiagnosed. However, physicians should consider testing for it if there are any laboratory abnormalities suggestive of celiac, a family history of the disease, or other conditions associated with celiac. Bloodwork revealing abnormalities or nonspecific symptoms like fatigue and headaches can prompt further investigation. A blood test for certain antibodies and an upper endoscopy may be conducted to confirm the presence of celiac disease.
Treatment for celiac disease, including silent celiac, involves adopting a gluten-free diet. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, can cause damage to the intestines and lead to symptoms of malabsorption, vitamin deficiencies, and an increased risk of small intestine cancer. Complete elimination of gluten from the diet is necessary to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage.
While there are more intense therapies available for severe cases, a gluten-free diet remains the primary treatment. Managing dietary changes is crucial, even if symptoms are not experienced after consuming gluten. Silent celiac is a serious condition, and neglecting treatment can result in long-term complications such as osteoporosis, nutritional deficiencies, malignancies, and reproductive issues.
It is essential to take silent celiac seriously, even if no symptoms are present. The damaged small intestine continues to function improperly, leading to potential health risks. Informing family members about the condition is also important as early detection can make a significant difference.
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