Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington has recently revealed her battle with coeliac disease – a condition affecting 1 in 100 people in the UK, which prompts the immune system to attack the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Adlington shared her story on Coeliac UK’s Instagram, urging for support on gluten-free prescriptions. Fans rallied behind her, praising her for raising awareness. While most are aware of the disease’s association with gluten, there are subtle signs to watch for.
The symptoms of coeliac disease are not always obvious and can be easily missed. While bloating, diarrhoea, and fatigue are common indicators, there are cases of ‘silent coeliac’ where symptoms are not readily apparent. Shockingly, 75% of individuals with coeliac disease are unaware of their condition, with a third showing no symptoms at all. Dr. Alasdair Scott, a gut health specialist, explains that gluten triggers an immune response leading to inflammation of the small bowel in those affected, and diagnosis usually occurs between one’s 30s and 50s. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with coeliac disease, especially if it runs in their family.
The disease can manifest as typical symptoms such as weight loss, stomach pain, and tiredness. However, Dr. Scott highlights the existence of ‘silent coeliac disease,’ with signs like anaemia, low bone density, tingling/numbness, infertility, and skin rashes. This ‘silent’ form can be difficult to detect due to the absence of traditional symptoms, necessitating keen observation for these subtler signs. As many as 1 in 10 individuals with coeliac disease may develop dermatitis herpetiformis, a bothersome skin rash.
Misdiagnosis is a common issue, with 36% of coeliac patients previously being diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). To confirm coeliac disease, a blood test is crucial, as an elevated antibody level is a strong indicator of the condition. The standard treatment for coeliac disease involves adopting a strict gluten-free diet, eliminating wheat, barley, rye, and related products. This dietary change is essential to allow the gut to heal completely and prevent the complications associated with the condition.
Dr. Scott’s guidance on spotting ‘silent coeliac disease’ is vital, as it sheds light on the lesser-known signs that could indicate the condition’s presence. From anaemia to infertility, these subtle symptoms should not be overlooked. Timely diagnosis through a blood test and subsequent adherence to a gluten-free diet can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with coeliac disease. Adlington’s openness about her diagnosis serves as a reminder that awareness and early detection are crucial in managing autoimmune conditions like coeliac disease.