Coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is a digestive disease that damages the small intestine and affects its ability to absorb nutrients. People with coeliac disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein that is found in many grains. Symptoms include bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, anaemia, weight loss, stunted growth, abdominal pain or cramps, nausea and vomiting, and tiredness. The only successful long term treatment is a gluten free diet, but corticosteroids, and treatment for nutritional deficiencies are also options.