Celiac disease is not just “ gluten allergy”. It is a condition where the common found in food gluten molecules turn into a perpetrator. Immune system’s reaction to gluten can lead to different autoimmune problems in the body. Most common sources of gluten are wheat, rye, and barley. Symptoms and outcomes could be different for different individuals. Little kids may have constipation. They may develop problems with weight gain and growth, so called failure to thrive. Diabetes and celiac disease are going hand in hand. Elimination of gluten in susceptible individuals can slow dawn and decrease severity of inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Brain fog, fatigue, attention issues and poor gym performance can be lessened in kids with celiac disease by timely diagnosis and implementation of proper diet and other changes. Thyroid issues like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis frequently running in the families could be connected to celiac disease. Since diagnostic tests these days are better than before, diagnosing kids may help diagnosing parents! Not only is diet important, but environmental control also. Skin products, art and craft supplies, toiletries, medications should be closely watched. Later on in life once college and/or work force joined by young adults, they have to be well trained to take care of themselves and preserve their health through lifestyle, diet, environmental control.
If your child is experiencing any concerning GI problems please reach out to the office of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition of Dr. Erena Treskova. Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Treskova will assure that all your child’s GI needs will be taken care of. To schedule Telehealth appointment go to www.gastropediatrics.com/schedule
Author Dr. Erena Treskova