Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine when gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune response. This immune reaction damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a range of digestive and non-digestive symptoms. Celiac disease can develop at any age but is often diagnosed in childhood, particularly when children start consuming foods that contain gluten.
At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide expert care and management for children with celiac disease, helping families throughout Atlanta navigate a gluten-free lifestyle and ensure proper growth and development.
Understanding Celiac Disease: What Happens When Children Eat Gluten
In children with celiac disease, eating gluten triggers the immune system to attack the villi–tiny, fingerlike projections that line the small intestine and absorb nutrients from food. Over time, this damage leads to malabsorption, resulting in nutrient deficiencies and a range of health issues. According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide are affected by celiac disease, and early diagnosis in children is critical for preventing long-term complications.
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Signs and Symptoms of Celiac Disease in Children
Celiac disease can present a wide range of symptoms in children, from digestive discomfort to growth and behavioral issues. The symptoms can vary depending on the child’s age, and some children may have mild or even no digestive symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. Common signs of celiac disease in children include:
Digestive Symptoms
Chronic diarrhea
Persistent, watery stools are a common symptom in young children with celiac disease.
Abdominal pain and bloating
Children may experience frequent stomach aches and noticeable bloating after consuming gluten.
Constipation
Some children with celiac disease may have difficulty passing stools, leading to constipation.
Nausea and vomiting
Gluten exposure can cause nausea and vomiting in some children.
Foul-smelling stools
Due to malabsorption, stools may be pale, oily, or particularly foul-smelling.
Non-Digestive Symptoms
Failure to thrive
Children with untreated celiac disease may have difficulty gaining weight or growing at the expected rate for their age.
Fatigue
Nutrient deficiencies caused by malabsorption can lead to low energy levels and chronic fatigue.
Irritability or mood changes
Behavioral changes, such as irritability or difficulty concentrating, may be present in children with celiac disease.
Delayed puberty
Older children and teens with untreated celiac disease may experience delayed sexual development due to nutrient deficiencies.
Rashes
Celiac disease can cause a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis, characterized by itchy, blistering rashes.
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician for evaluation and testing, especially if there is a family history of celiac disease or other autoimmune conditions.
Diagnosing Celiac Disease in Children
Diagnosing celiac disease in children involves a combination of symptom assessment, medical history, and diagnostic testing. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide thorough evaluations to determine whether your child has celiac disease. The diagnostic process typically includes:
Blood tests
The first step in diagnosing celiac disease is a blood test to check for specific antibodies that indicate an immune response to gluten. The tissue transglutaminase antibody (tTG-IgA) test is the most common blood test used to detect celiac disease.
Endoscopy and biopsy
If blood tests suggest celiac disease, an upper endoscopy may be recommended. This procedure involves taking a small tissue sample (biopsy) from the small intestine to check for damage to the villi, confirming the diagnosis.
Genetic testing
In some cases, genetic testing may be used to check for specific genes (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8) that are associated with celiac disease. However, genetic testing is typically used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.
It is important that your child continues to eat gluten before diagnostic testing to ensure accurate results. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment will focus on managing the condition through dietary changes.
Managing Celiac Disease: The Gluten-Free Diet
The primary treatment for celiac disease in children is a strict gluten-free diet. Eliminating all sources of gluten from your child’s diet allows the small intestine to heal, improving symptoms and preventing long-term complications. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we work closely with families to provide guidance on managing a gluten-free lifestyle and ensuring your child receives all the nutrients they need for healthy growth.
Key Tips for a Gluten-Free Diet:
Read food labels
Gluten is commonly found in processed foods, so it’s important to check labels for hidden sources of gluten. Look for gluten-free certifications on packaged foods.
Avoid cross-contamination
Even small amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms, so it’s essential to avoid cross-contamination. Use separate cookware, utensils, and appliances for gluten-free foods.
Focus on whole, naturally gluten-free foods
Many whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, dairy, and gluten-free grains like rice and quinoa, are naturally gluten-free and can form the basis of a healthy diet.
Work with a dietitian
A dietitian with experience in managing celiac disease can help ensure that your child is meeting their nutritional needs while following a gluten-free diet.
Long-Term Monitoring and Care
After starting a gluten-free diet, children with celiac disease typically see an improvement in symptoms within weeks. However, long-term monitoring is essential to ensure that the intestines are healing and that your child is receiving the proper nutrients for healthy development. Regular follow-up appointments with your pediatrician are important to track your child’s growth, check for any lingering symptoms, and address any concerns about managing the diet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celiac Disease in Children
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Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. It is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
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No, celiac disease is a lifelong condition. Once diagnosed, your child will need to follow a strict gluten-free diet to manage the disease and prevent complications.
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Most children see an improvement in symptoms within a few weeks of starting a gluten-free diet, but complete healing of the intestines can take several months.
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Accidental gluten exposure can cause a return of symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, or fatigue. Long-term exposure can lead to complications, so it’s important to avoid gluten as much as possible.
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Inform the school about your child’s diagnosis and provide information on gluten-free meals and snacks. Work with school staff to ensure your child’s dietary needs are met and that they avoid gluten-containing foods.
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Yes, celiac disease tends to run in families. If a parent or sibling has celiac disease, your child may be at an increased risk and should be monitored for symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment for Celiac Disease Care in Atlanta
If your child is showing signs of celiac disease or has been diagnosed with the condition, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine to schedule an appointment. Our experienced pediatricians provide comprehensive care for children with celiac disease, offering guidance on managing a gluten-free diet and monitoring your child’s growth and development at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families across Atlanta.