If you are looking for information about a possible home test to find out if you are celiac, here you will find all the most relevant information.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects a significant number of people around the world. In Spain, it is estimated that around 1% of the population could have celiac disease, but many of them have not yet been diagnosed.

This condition, caused by gluten intolerance, can have serious health consequences if it is not detected in time. In this article, we will explore in detail what celiac disease is, its symptoms, the consequences of not treating it and, most importantly, how to perform a home test to find out if you are celiac.

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is an immune system disorder that affects a significant percentage of the world’s population. It is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in common foods such as wheat, barley and rye.

What sets this disease apart is an abnormal immune response that occurs when someone with a genetic predisposition consumes gluten. This response leads to progressive damage to the lining of the small intestine, which, over time, compromises the body’s ability to properly absorb essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and folic acid.

This disorder can have a devastating impact on long-term health.as it can lead to nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, fertility problems and even neurological disorders.

Symptoms of celiac disease

The symptoms of celiac disease come in a wide variety and can be deceiving in their appearance. Among the most frequent symptoms are abdominal bloating and discomfort, chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, rashes, anemia and headaches. However, it is important to note that not all people suffering from this disease experience noticeable symptoms, which can make diagnosis significantly more difficult. For this reason, it is often called a “silent” disease, since it can be present in people without manifesting itself obviously.

Consequences of not treating celiac disease

Failure to properly treat celiac disease can have serious long-term health repercussions.. One of the most harmful effects is chronic damage to the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb essential nutrients. This can result in significant nutritional deficiencies, which in turn can lead to osteoporosis and increase the risk of bone fractures. Additionally, untreated celiac disease can contribute to reproductive problems, such as difficulties conceiving, and can lead to neurological complications, such as peripheral neuropathy and ataxia.

Perhaps one of the most alarming aspects is the increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as intestinal lymphoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma. This underlines the importance of early diagnosis and proper management of this disease.

Who is at risk?

Celiac disease can affect people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. However, there is observed a higher prevalence in individuals with a family history of the disease. If someone in your close family has been diagnosed with celiac disease, it is essential to be alert and consider screening, especially if you experience suspicious symptoms.

Besides, A higher incidence of celiac disease has been documented in people of European ancestry. This suggests a genetic predisposition that varies between populations, which may influence susceptibility to this disease.

Home test to find out if you are celiac

If you have symptoms that make you suspect you might have celiac or if you have a family history of the disease, it is important to perform a home test to find out if you are celiac. This approach can provide a valuable initial indication, but is not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Here is a simple and accessible method:

Step 1: Stop consuming gluten

The first step is eliminate gluten from your diet for at least 2 weeks. This includes foods such as bread, pasta, crackers, and any products containing wheat, barley, or rye. During this period, it is essential to keep track of changes in your symptoms and general well-being.

Step 2: Observe your symptoms

While eliminating gluten, pay attention to any improvements in your symptoms. If you experience a significant reduction in abdominal bloating, diarrhea or other symptomsthis may indicate a sensitivity to gluten.

Step 3: Introduce gluten again

After the two weeks of elimination, gradually reintroduce gluten into your diet. If symptoms noticeably return, this could be a strong indication of celiac disease.

Step 4: Consult a health professional

If the results of this home test suggest that you are sensitive to gluten, it is essential to seek confirmation from a medical professional. An accurate diagnosis of celiac disease requires blood tests to detect specific antibodies and, in some cases, a biopsy of the small intestine to evaluate tissue damage. Accurate diagnosis is essential to making informed decisions about your health and diet.

Conclusion

Celiac disease is a serious disorder that can affect quality of life. if not detected and treated appropriately.

If you have symptoms or suspect you might have celiac, don’t hesitate to perform a home test like the one mentioned above, but always seek the guidance of a health professional for a definitive diagnosis.

Early detection and appropriate treatment can make a difference in the management of this disease and your overall well-being. Health is a treasure that we must take care ofand being informed is the first step towards a healthier and fuller life.