What Is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an increasingly common disorder that may affect up to 1 in 200 children. When someone with celiac diseases consumes gluten (found in wheat, rye, and barley), their intestinal immune system activates, causing inflammation in the small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, growth delay, delayed menstruation, and iron deficiency anemia. Some children have no symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease in children is important due to its potential to affect growth and development.
Why Choose Us?
Connecticut Children’s Celiac Disease Program is staffed by pediatric gastroenterologists with extensive experienced diagnosing and managing celiac disease. Additionally, our team includes dietitians who provide outstanding education and counseling to support children and their families with managing this disorder. As celiac disease is a lifelong condition, we provide long-term continuity of care.
Treatments
Today, celiac disease is managed by following a 100% gluten-free diet. After diagnosis, our team educates patients and families on strategies to avoid food containing gluten.