Coeliac disease Flashcards
What is coeliac disease?
A lifelong autoimmune disease caused by a reaction to gluten
How common is coeliac disease?
1 in 100 people have the condition
What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?
Symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, nausea, wind, constipation, tiredness, sudden or unexpected weight loss (but not in all cases), hair loss and anaemia
What is the treatment of coeliac disease?
Once diagnosed, the only treatment for coeliac disease is a gluten-free diet.
What is dermatitis herpetiformis?
Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is the skin manifestation of coeliac disease which occurs as a rash that commonly occurs on the elbows, knees, shoulders, buttocks and face, with red, raised patches often with blisters.
How common is dermatitis herpetiformis?
It affects around one in 3,300 people.
What food am I not allowed to eat?
Wheat, rye and barley, so foods containing these should not be eaten. Some people with coeliac disease may also be sensitive to oats.
Do you have any tips on how to avoid cross-contaminating?
keep cooking utensils separate during food preparation and cooking
do not fry food in the same oil that has previously been used to cook foods which contain gluten
use a clean grill, separate toaster or toaster bags to make gluten-free toast
use separate breadboards and wash surfaces thoroughly
use separate condiments like jam, butter, mustard and mayonnaise.
How long will it take for my symptoms to settle down?
Many people feel better within a few days and usually symptoms like nausea, diarrhoea and bloating clear up within a few weeks.
When is dermatitis herpetiformis most often diagnosed?
Most commonly diagnosed in those aged between 50 and 69 years.
If I have coeliac how likely is it that my children will get it?
Coeliac disease does run in families but not in a predictable way. Around one in ten close relatives of people with coeliac disease (for example, father, mother, son, daughter) will be at risk of coeliac disease
What is the most common age that it typically presents?
Peaks in infancy and 50-60 years
Is there a family link?
There is a 10% precedence in first degree relatives and a 30% relative risk for siblings
What is it okay for me to eat?
Rice, maize, soya, potatoes, oats and sugar are okay
What foods are prescribable?
Gluten free biscuits, flour, bread and pasta
