Celiac Disease

The GastroEnterology Center Offers Comprehensive Screening for Celiac Disease

If you are experiencing severe gastrointestinal issues or suspect you may have Celiac disease, it is important to see a specialist. By seeing our specially trained GI physicians at The Gastroenterology Center, we can help determine an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein in foods such as wheat, rye, barley and foods containing these ingredients. When people with Celiac disease eat gluten, their immune systems respond by attacking the small intestine, which may cause:

  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Changes in appetite
  • Constipation, diarrhea or other digestive symptoms
  • Disrupted absorption of nutrients
  • Inflammation of the tissues of the small intestine
  • Stools that are foul-smelling and oily
  • Unexplained weight loss

Untreated Celiac Disease Poses Serious Long-Term Health Risks

Celiac disease affects millions of Americans, and diagnoses are on the rise. No one knows for sure what causes it, but you’re more likely to get a Celiac disease diagnosis if someone in your family has it. Untreated, the condition can lead to:

  • Bone disease, such as osteoporosis
  • Certain types of intestinal cancer
  • Infertility and miscarriage
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Liver disease
  • Other autoimmune disorders
  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Treatment for Celiac disease focuses on removing gluten from the diet. Some patients may also benefit from certain medications and nutritional supplements. Physicians at The GastroEnterology Center can help you properly manage Celiac disease to minimize your health risk.

Digestive Health Tips From Our Staff

Colonoscopy screening:  Better to look and find nothing, than not look and miss something.

 

Dr. Powell states he chose to practice Gastroenterology, “to treat a wide scope of different problems and afflictions and using modern treatment to help these patients feel better.”