Celiac disease is a problem in which the body has an aversion to gluten, which is found in many bread-like products. It can interfere with the absorption of minerals and nutrients, which could quickly lead to malnourishment. In eating correctly, one can avoid the dangerous effects of the disease.
You often display preemptive symptoms when celiac disease starts to become a problem. This could include digestive problems for the younger adults and children, or sores and fatigue for adults. Some may not even display any symptoms, but rather show signs of malnutrition. If you are experiencing a lack in nutrition, the disease has progressed and you need to see a doctor immediately.
Currently the only treatment for celiac disease is to avoid gluten in your diet. You will have to plan out your meals in advance, and ensure that gluten isn't present. Gluten can sometimes be present in lip balm or medicine as well, so you must be very cautious in applying anything to your mouth or consuming anything.
In some rare cases, you may notice that you still have symptoms after first implementing your diet free of gluten. Sometimes it can take a while for all sources of gluten to be evacuated from your system. Other times, you may still be getting a tiny amount of gluten from food sources and you aren't aware of it. You will have to go back and verify all sources of food do not contain gluten if symptoms don't improve.
Wheat, rye, and barley are the major three things a person should not consume. Any products derivative of these three things are also not safe- such as many cereals or bread products. There are substitution ingredients available for every product on the market, you just have to become educated in knowing how to prepare meals with them. Overall, one with a gluten allergy can still consume the foods they like, unlike other allergies that are more restricting on what they can eat.
It's scary to think that you can pass on the disease when you procreate. Any children you may have already had should be tested immediately, and any others in your family tree should be told of their potential risk. Symptoms may not be apparent, so be sure to stress that even if they feel fine they should get tested for safety purposes. It will be a hassle, but a necessary one that can save a life.
In Conclusion
Food allergies are seldom easy to work with. Celiac disease is one of the easiest, once you are accustomed to it, since there are plentiful substitutes that replace ingredients you can't consume. Look for a gluten-free cookbook for some ideas on recipes for the whole family.