Celiac Disease
Although it doesn’t get as much press as other diseases, celiac disease is one of the most common illnesses in America. It is a type of autoimmune disorder of the intestinal tract which affects people who have a genetic predisposition to the disorder. It is caused by the body’s reaction to gliadin, which is a type of gluten protein found in wheat, as well as other similar proteins in barley and rye. When the body comes into contact with the protein, an enzyme modifies the protein, which, when it cross-reacts with small-bowel tissue, causes a violent immune system reaction.
Recognizing Celiac Disease
Living with celiac disease can be difficult, and the disease can take its toll on you and your family if you are not diagnosed in time. Because of how common the disease is, and because the only treatment is a responsible, gluten-free diet, it’s important to be diagnosed early. With that in mind, watch out for the following tell-tale symptoms of the illness:
- Abdominal distension: a noticeable swelling of the belly.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss in adults and stunted growth in children
- Chronic fatigue
Many of these symptoms are common with other illnesses, and even then, symptoms are frequently not apparent at all. This underlines the importance of seeing your doctor regularly for check-ups. Fortunately, diagnosis has become easier over the years as medicine has gotten more advanced, and even the asymptomatic can be properly diagnosed.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has had medical difficulties as a result of undiagnosed or a delayed diagnosis of celiac disease,
contact the Pennsylvania malpractice lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. by calling 610-667-7511.