CELIAC DISEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Celiac disease, also known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy or celiac sprue, is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine of individuals who are genetically predisposed. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in various grains such as wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives.
When someone with celiac disease ingests gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the lining of the small intestine, specifically the tiny finger-like projections called villi. These villi play a crucial role in nutrient absorption, and their destruction leads to malabsorption of essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and folate.
The symptoms of celiac disease vary widely and can affect multiple organ systems, making diagnosis challenging. Common indications include gastrointestinal issues such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss. However, some individuals may experience non-gastrointestinal symptoms like anemia, skin rashes, joint pain, headaches, or mood disorders.
Currently, the only treatment for celiac disease is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. This involves avoiding all gluten-containing foods and beverages, as even small amounts of gluten can trigger an immune response and cause damage. Following a gluten-free diet can alleviate symptoms, promote intestinal healing, and prevent long-term complications associated with the disease, such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, or an increased risk of certain cancers.
It is crucial for individuals with celiac disease to receive proper medical diagnosis and ongoing support from healthcare professionals and dietitians to effectively manage their condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Common Misspellings for CELIAC DISEASE
- xeliac disease
- veliac disease
- feliac disease
- deliac disease
- cwliac disease
- csliac disease
- cdliac disease
- crliac disease
- c4liac disease
- c3liac disease
- cekiac disease
- cepiac disease
- ceoiac disease
- celuac disease
- celjac disease
- celkac disease
- celoac disease
- cel9ac disease
- cel8ac disease
- celizc disease
Etymology of CELIAC DISEASE
The word celiac refers to the anatomical region of the abdomen known as the abdomen or the abdominal cavity. The term celiac disease specifically refers to a disorder that affects the small intestine. The term was coined in the early 19th century by a Greek physician named Aretaeus of Cappadocia.
The word celiac originates from the Ancient Greek word koiliakos, which means suffering in the bowels or abdominal. Aretaeus used this term to describe the symptoms experienced by patients affected by the disease, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition.
It is important to note that there are variations in spelling and pronunciation across different languages. In some regions, the condition is also referred to as coeliac disease, celiac sprue, or gluten-sensitive enteropathy.
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