Celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disease that primarily affects the digestive system.  
 
When people with celiac disease eat gluten, a protein from wheat, barley, or rye, their immune system reacts abnormally.  
 
It causes inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine. As time passes, this damage interferes with nutrient absorption.  
 
It leads to several health complications. This blog explores the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for Celiac disease and highlights the importance of ongoing medical research. 

Causes of Celiac Disease 

A complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and immune factors causes celiac disease. Understanding these causes can help at-risk people take the necessary preventative measures to manage their condition effectively. 

Genetic Defect 

The most important risk factor for celiac disease is genetics. Individuals with polymorphisms of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene, specifically HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8, are more likely to develop the disease.  

Immune Response to Vaccines 

When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their immune system mistakes it for a harmful substance, which triggers an immune response that causes inflammation and damage to the villi. Villi look like little fingers that line the small intestine. Destruction of the villi over time causes poor nutrient absorption. 

Environmental Catalysis 

Although genetic predisposition is a major factor, environmental factors also play a role in triggering the development of celiac disease. These factors include: 

Infection: Some viral infections, especially in childhood, increase the risk of developing celiac disease. 

Early Exposure to Gluten: Starting gluten in childhood or very late can affect your chances of developing this condition. 

Stress and Surgery: Major life stress or gastrointestinal surgery can act as a trigger for those who are genetically predisposed. 

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease presents with a wide variety of symptoms. It can vary significantly from person to person. Some people have serious digestive problems. At the same time, some people have some symptoms or no symptoms at all. 

Gastrointestinal Symptoms 

Chronic Diarrhea 
Frequent diarrhea is a sign of celiac disease, which is often accompanied by bloating and abdominal pain. 

Bloating and Gas 
Inflammation in the small intestine can cause excessive gas and bloating after eating gluten-free foods. 

Abdominal Pain 
Many individuals with celiac disease experience persistent abdominal discomfort or cramping. 

Nausea and vomiting  
In some cases, eating gluten can cause nausea and vomiting. 

Constipation 
Although diarrhea is common, some people may have constipation as their primary symptom. 

Non – Digestive Symptoms 

Fatigue 
Nutrient malabsorption, particularly of iron, can lead to chronic fatigue and weakness. 
 
Weight Phenomenon 
Individuals with untreated celiac disease often experience unintended weight loss due to poor nutrient absorption. 
 
Anemia 
Despite gastrointestinal symptoms, iron-deficiency anemia is also common in celiac disease. 
 
Joint Pain 
Poor absorption of calcium and vitamin D can result in weak bones and joint discomfort. 
 
Skin Rash (Dermatitis Herpetiformis) 
This itchy, blistering skin condition is a direct symptom of celiac disease. 
 

Neurological Problems 
Some people with Celiac disease may experience headaches, migraines, or nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy). 
 
Mood Disorders 
Depression, anxiety, and irritability have been reported in individuals with untreated celiac disease. This may be due to malnutrition and the interaction between the gut and brain. 
 

Treating Celiac Disease 

The only effective treatment for Celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. However, additional treatments and clinical trials are continually being sought to improve the quality of life for people with the disease celiac. 

Gluten-Free Diet 

1. Avoiding Gluten: The primary treatment is to remove all sources of gluten from the diet, including:  

• Wheat, barley, and rye. 

• Processed foods that may contain hidden gluten 

2. Food Rich in Nutrients 

Individuals should eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean protein to combat malabsorption.  

3. Reading Labels 

Reading food labels carefully is essential to identify hidden sources of gluten. Gluten can be thickened or flavoured in many processed foods, sauces, and condiments. 

Celiac Disease Clinical trials at Om Research 

Even after following a strict gluten-free diet some people may still have symptoms or develop complications. It is where medical research plays an important role. Om Research is committed to advancing our understanding of Celiac Disease through innovative clinical trials in California. 

Our Ongoing Clinical Trials Aim To: 

Looking For New Treatments 

We are investigating treatments that may complement or replace a gluten-free diet in the future. This includes therapy with enzymes that break down gluten in the digestive system and medicines that alter the immune system’s response. 

Improved Diagnostic Techniques 

A rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management. Our research is focused on developing non-invasive diagnostic tools and biomarkers to more effectively detect celiac disease. 

Improve Quality of Life 

Living with celiac disease can be challenging. And our goal is to develop strategies and treatments to improve the overall well-being of those affected. 

Participate in Our Clinical Trials

If you or someone you know has Celiac disease and are interested in participating in groundbreaking research. Consider participating in one of our clinical trials. Joining will give you access to: 

• State-of-the-art treatments 

• Comprehensive medical care and follow-up 

• An opportunity to help shape the future of Celiac disease treatment. 

To learn more about our ongoing clinical trials or to register, please visit Om Research or contact us directly. When we work together, we pave the way for better management and potential treatment of Celiac disease by enrolling in the clinical trials in California. 

Conclusion 

Celiac disease is a lifelong disease that must be diligently managed through a gluten-free diet. But with advances in research and the efforts of organizations like Om Research, there is hope for better treatment options and a better quality of life for those affected.  
 
Understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms early and getting the right treatment can make a significant difference. Participation in clinical trials is not only beneficial to the individual. But it also contributes to the global effort to find a cure for celiac disease.