The Impact of Celiac Disease on Women’s Health

Celiac disease is a chronic illness caused by an abnormal reaction to gluten, ranging from mild to severe reactions. It is more serious than most other food intolerances and can affect all groups of people. This article explores what celiac disease is and how it affects women’s health.

What is Celiac Disease? 

Celiac disease is an inherited disorder affecting the immune system. It causes a reaction in the body, often triggered by a protein called gluten. Consuming foods with gluten causes the immune system to react by producing antibodies against it, which damage the lining (or mucosa) of the small intestine. Prolonged exposure to gluten can damage the lining of the intestines and prevent them from absorbing nutrients.

Gluten is found in most grains, especially wheat, barley, and rye. These grains are used in breads, cereals, pasta, and other baked goods. Gluten may also be added to sauces, packaged foods, and beer.

Intestinal damage caused by this illness can lead to symptoms like diarrhoea, fatigue, bloating, anaemia, and weight loss. In children, the malabsorption of nutrients can adversely affect growth. Without early treatment, it can lead to more severe conditions.

What Causes Celiac Disease? 

Celiac disease results from an abnormal reaction to gluten, which leads to an immune response when eaten. While the exact causes are unknown, the HLA -DQ2 and DQ8 genes are genetically predisposed to the condition. According to the ICMR Guideline on Diagnosis and Management of Celiac Disease, these two variations have been observed in the Indian population.

What are the Risk Factors of Celiac Disease? 

Celiac disease can be inherited. Therefore, those with family members who have the condition are also more likely to develop it. Some studies also suggest that having a higher number of infections early in life, as well as changes in the gut microbiome, are related to an increased risk of celiac disease. Some other risk factors include:

1. Conditions like lupus rheumatoid arthritis

2. Type 1 diabetes

3. Thyroid disease and autoimmune liver diseases

4. Conditions like Down syndrome and Turner syndrome

5. Lactose intolerance

6. Intestinal lymphoma

How Does Celiac Disease Affect Women? 

About 1% of people across the world are affected by Celiac disease. As per a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, celiac disease in females occurs twice as frequently as in males. It is still uncertain why celiac disease is more prevalent in women. Some studies suggest this is because women are more prone to autoimmune conditions, which put them at risk for celiac disease (like type 1 diabetes). It could also be a result of hormonal influences.

What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease? 

Common celiac disease symptoms in adults can vary, affecting the digestive system and other body parts. They include:

– Iron deficiency anaemia

– Pain and stiffness of the joints

– Diarrhoea or constipation

– Weight loss

– Depression and anxiety

– Vomiting and nausea

– Migraines and headaches

– Weakness of the bones

– Fatigue

– Seizures

While celiac disease symptoms in females can be similar to the typical ones mentioned above, the condition can also affect the reproductive system, leading to problems with fertility. Some common celiac symptoms in women include:

– Stillbirths or miscarriages

– Chronic fatigue

– Early menopause

– Caesarean deliveries

– Iron deficiency anaemia

– Unexplained fertility and menstrual irregularities

– An absence of menstruation

– Conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia

How Is Celiac Disease in Females Diagnosed? 

Celiac disease in females can have an adverse effect on reproductive health and other body functions. If an individual has the symptoms mentioned above, primarily related to infertility, it is essential to test for celiac disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can help control the effects. The most common test for this is a blood test, which tests for tTG-IgA antibody (the antibody that fights gluten).

For the blood test, a medical professional draws a small sample of blood from the patient for this test. Patients are typically asked to continue eating foods containing gluten (like rotis) for a few weeks before the test. The test involves very few risks, and most individuals only feel slight bruising on the site where the needle was inserted.

Genetic tests may also be done to test for the presence of the HLA DQ2 or HLA DQ8 since almost 99% of patients with the disease have one of these genes. The absence of these genes means the individual is highly unlikely to develop celiac disease.

An intestinal biopsy is always necessary to confirm a celiac disease diagnosis. In this test, a small amount of tissue is removed from the small intestine’s lining and tested for CD. It is the most accurate testing method.

If an individual is presenting with the symptoms of celiac disease, it is crucial to visit a healthcare professional for further guidance. Book a celiac disease test with Dr Lal PathLabs for a fast and accurate diagnosis.

FAQs 

1. What precautions should be taken for celiac disease?

Avoiding foods containing gluten is the best to deal with celiac disease.

2. How does celiac disease affect women?

Celiac disease in women can cause infertility, irregular menstruation, and other reproductive issues.