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General health information

Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is a lasting immune reaction to gluten in wheat, barley and rye. It damages the small intestine and may cause digestive symptoms, anaemia, tiredness, growth problems or few noticeable symptoms. Have tests while you are still eating gluten; do not start a gluten-free diet yourself before testing.

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  • Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition in which gluten damages the lining of the small intestine.
  • Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye. Oats are suitable only if verified as gluten-free and tolerated by the individual.
  • Symptoms vary widely: from diarrhoea and abdominal pain to anaemia, weak bones, tiredness, skin changes or no obvious bowel symptoms at all.
  • Do not start a gluten-free diet before blood tests and any biopsy; otherwise, results may be falsely normal.
  • After a confirmed diagnosis, treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.
  • Dietitian support and regular medical check-ups help prevent hidden gluten exposure, deficiencies and complications.

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Further reading

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H
HookwormsHookworms are small intestinal worms that feed on blood from the bowel wall. Larvae usually enter through bare skin from soil contaminated with faeces. A long-lasting infection can cause anaemia and growth problems.
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Iron overloadIron overload means too much iron is stored in the body. It may be hereditary, as in HFE haemochromatosis, or secondary to repeated blood transfusions, certain blood disorders or liver disease. Early symptoms are often vague, such as tiredness, joint problems or abdominal pain. High ferritin alone does not prove iron overload; transferrin saturation, medical history and sometimes genetic testing or imaging help identify the cause. Treatment is medical, usually involving professionally performed venesection when appropriate.
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TapewormsTapeworms are parasites that can live in the bowel. Some people mainly notice worm segments in their stools; others have abdominal symptoms, nausea or weight loss. Infection may relate to undercooked food, travel or, in some cases, exposure to contamination in the environment. With Taenia, cysticercosis also needs consideration in the right context. Have a doctor manage diagnosis and treatment; do not choose a deworming dose yourself.