Why You Need to Know More Than AI To Understand the Symptoms of Coeliac Disease

This morning my computer woke up with an idea for a blog post: understanding the symptoms of celiac disease (note the missing 'o'). It had thoughtfully written out a post for me to approve. Intrigued, I clicked the review button.

I have to say, much of it wasn't bad. It was boring as **** but, given the computer had thought it all up by itself, it wasn't far off the mark.

HOWEVER! I was glad I'd read it through. I could have been lazy and pressed the 'send to all' key but what a calamity that would have been... I'll explain.

There was a lot in there that was reasonable. But at times it was also a little scaremongering and inaccurate. And that's why I've inserted my own comments. You'll see the computer's response below in normal font. Then you'll see my blazing bold font for some much-needed tweaking.

Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Recognising the symptoms early can make a significant difference in managing the condition effectively. This article explores the various symptoms associated with coeliac disease, helping you identify potential signs and understand what happens when gluten is consumed by someone with this condition.

It rather reminds me of dictation from the 50s. I feel like a prim and proper secretary had to type out a stuffy doctor's notes. Anything that contains "this article explores" clearly didn't consider that everyone read the headline.

Recognising Coeliac Disease Symptoms

Coeliac disease symptoms can vary widely from person to person, making diagnosis challenging. Some individuals experience classic digestive symptoms, while others may have more subtle or non-gastrointestinal signs.

I'll agree with much of this paragraph. Symptoms do vary widely and that's why it's often undiagnosed. So many people are misdiagnosed with another problem (for me it was endometriosis) before doctors realise they've got it wrong. But the thing I'm keen for people to realise is that coeliac disease symptoms are increasingly becoming more neurological than digestive; many people don't fall into the classic coeliac trap of a bloated belly and diarrhoea.

Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

• Digestive issues: These include diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. These symptoms often occur after consuming gluten-containing foods.

• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign, as nutrient absorption is impaired.

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak is common due to malnutrition and inflammation.

• Anaemia: Iron-deficiency anaemia may develop because of poor absorption of iron.

• Skin problems: Dermatitis herpetiformis, a blistering, itchy skin rash, is a specific symptom linked to coeliac disease.

• Bone or joint pain: Osteoporosis or arthritis-like symptoms can occur due to calcium and vitamin D malabsorption.

• Neurological symptoms: These include headaches, numbness, or tingling in the hands and feet.

• Growth issues in children: Delayed growth or puberty can be a sign in younger patients.

  
  

I'm quite glad the above bullet points consider more than gastro issues in coeliacs. And they've avoided the awful phrase, "failure to thrive". This used to be commonplace in children's diagnoses and it implied they'd done something wrong.

Because symptoms can be so diverse, it is important to consider celiac disease as a possibility even if digestive symptoms are not prominent.

Gluten-containing bread representing common trigger for coeliac disease symptoms

This image was automatically included with the post. And it really doesn't look like gluten-containing bread to me. For one thing, it's too small (IYKYK).

How to Identify Coeliac Disease Symptoms Early

Early identification of coeliac disease symptoms is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Well that statement's not helpful for a coeliac. Imagine having had symptoms for years, being fobbed off by doctors and then reading that! You'd be terrified you'd done irreparable damage, especially if you read on...

Here are practical steps to help recognise the condition:

1. Keep a symptom diary: Track any digestive or neurological symptoms and note when they occur, especially after eating gluten. GRRRR. I'M IN CAPITALS NOW SO YOU CAN TELL IT'S ME AND NOT AI. SYMPTOMS DON'T JUST COME ON AFTER EATING GLUTEN. IT CAN TAKE UP TO 3 DAYS FOR SOME PEOPLE'S BODIES TO RESPOND TO GLUTEN. GETTING PEOPLE TO PLAY DETECTIVE ON THEIR OWN ISN'T A GOOD IDEA.

2. Look for patterns: Symptoms that improve when gluten is avoided and worsen when gluten is consumed are a strong indicator.

   SEE NUMBER 1

3. Consult a healthcare professional: If you suspect coeliac disease, seek medical advice for appropriate testing. BIT DIFFICULT TO THINK UP COELIAC DISEASE YOURSELF IF YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF IT BEFORE.

4. Get tested before starting a gluten-free diet: Blood tests and biopsies are more accurate when gluten is still part of the diet.

   FINALLY, SOME GOOD ADVICE!

5. Be aware of family history: Coeliac disease can run in families, so inform your doctor if relatives have been diagnosed. AGREED. GET EVERYONE TESTED.

   
   

Understanding these symptoms and acting promptly can lead to earlier diagnosis and better management.

Medical consultation for diagnosing coeliac disease symptoms

Again, not my pic. It makes it look as though you'll get a massive number of medical specialists poring over your medical notes as though you're a 1 in a million anomaly. (You're not: approx 1-2% of people have coeliac disease according to the lastest data.)

What Happens if Coeliac Eats Gluten?

When a person with coeliac disease consumes gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of the small intestine. This damage impairs nutrient absorption and leads to a range of symptoms.

I'm fairly happy with this part. It's not too wordy and is quite precise about the effects gluten has on the body.

The reaction can be immediate or delayed, and symptoms may include:

• Severe abdominal pain and cramping

• Diarrhoea or constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fatigue and weakness

• Headaches and brain fog

• Skin rashes such as dermatitis herpetiformis

  
  

Mercifully, we're spared all the symptoms, which would likely put a reader off continuing and therefore missing the crucial point: symptoms are massively varied with some coeliacs so don't dismiss anything.

Repeated gluten exposure can cause chronic inflammation, leading to complications like malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and increased risk of certain cancers. Therefore, strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is essential for managing the disease and preventing these outcomes.

This part's so flippant I want to dive in and put massive disclaimers on everything. Firstly, the risks of "certain cancers" are tiny (albeit real) and the complications don't necessarily happen to someone with coeliac disease. That said, it's important to know about them so you don't get flippant and deviate from your gluten-free diet.

Gluten-free food options essential for managing celiac disease symptoms

I have no idea why they've put in a stock photo of fruit here. Why not focus on something that usually has gluten in like a pie or a biscuit?

Managing Symptoms Through Diet and Lifestyle

The cornerstone of managing coeliac disease symptoms is a strict gluten-free diet.

The word 'cornerstone' is an appropriate one, since you're going to have to do a lot more than "just" eat gluten-free. But for someone starting out, going strictly gluten-free is an excellent start. The more complex stuff (eating enough fibre, getting enough nutrient sources, working out if you can have gluten-free oats and so on) can come later.

Here are some actionable recommendations:

• Eliminate all gluten-containing foods: This includes wheat, barley, rye, and any products derived from them.

• Read labels carefully: Gluten can be hidden in sauces, processed foods, and even medications. IDEALLY HERE THEY'D PUT THAT IN THE UK YOU LEGALLY HAVE TO DECLARE GLUTEN SOURCES IN THE INGREDIENTS AND THEY CAN BE LISTED AS WHEAT, RYE, BARLEY OR OATS (AND YES, OATS HAVE TO BE LISTED, EVEN IF THEY'RE GLUTEN-FREE).

• Incorporate naturally gluten-free foods: Fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, rice, and potatoes are safe choices. BUT ONLY IF THEY'RE PURE SOURCES. DON'T EAT A BATTERED COD OR A CRUMB-COATED CHICKEN NUGGET.

• Avoid cross-contamination: Use separate kitchen utensils and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten exposure. IDEALLY THERE'D BE MORE OF AN EXPLANATION OF CROSS-CONTACT HERE.

• Consider nutritional supplements: Vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and vitamin D may be needed to address deficiencies. TWO THINGS: FIRSTLY, GET ANNUAL TESTS FROM YOUR DOCTOR SO YOU KNOW IF YOU'RE DEFICIENT. SECONDLY, DON'T RELY ON SOME OF THE VITAMINS IN THE SUPERMARKETS WHICH THE BODY IS OFTEN UNABLE TO PROCESS. SOURCE YOUR VITAMINS FROM A REGISTERED NUTRITIONIST WHO SPECIALISES IN GUT HEALTH.

• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This supports overall health and symptom management. THIS GENERIC PIECE OF ADVICE DOESN'T GO FAR ENOUGH TO HELP PEOPLE LEARN ABOUT CALCIUM, FIBRE, IRON AND VITAMIN D, TO NAME BUT A FEW.

• Seek support: Joining coeliac disease support groups can provide practical advice and emotional encouragement. HERE I AGREE WHOLEHEARTEDLY.

  
  

By following these steps, individuals can reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience persistent symptoms that could be related to coeliac disease, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications.

I'm glad they've mentioned a healthcare professional but they need to do more. In the UK you need to go to your GP but only as a starting point. Your GP can't diagnose coeliac disease. That has to be done by a gastroenterologist and the way to get an appointment with them is through your GP.

Consider seeing a doctor if you notice:

• Chronic digestive problems such as diarrhoea or bloating

• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

• Skin rashes that do not respond to typical treatments

• Family history of celiac disease or autoimmune disorders

• Symptoms that improve on a gluten-free diet but return when gluten is reintroduced I DON'T LIKE THIS LAST POINT. IF YOU REALLY ARE COELIAC AND YOU GO GLUTEN-FREE, YOU'LL NEED TO DO A 6 WEEK GLUTEN CHALLENGE TO REACTIVATE SYMPTOMS, WHICH IS HELL ON EARTH FOR MANY AND SOME PEOPLE CAN'T BEAR THE THOUGHT OF IT, MEANING THEY MAY NOT BE ACCURATELY DIAGNOSED.

  
  

Medical professionals can perform blood tests and intestinal biopsies to confirm the diagnosis. For more detailed information and personal stories, visit this blog on coeliac disease.

Here AI has taken you to my main blog page, which is a bit weird considering you're already on my blog.

Taking action early can lead to better health outcomes and a more comfortable life.

Again, I'm fearful someone reading this would worry about their health unnecessarily. There's plenty of evidence to suggest after going strictly gluten-free many people's health returns to normal.

Understanding the symptoms of coeliac disease is the first step towards effective management. By recognising the signs, seeking timely medical advice, and adhering to a gluten-free lifestyle, individuals can control their symptoms and prevent complications. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise your health.

I agree with the sentiment - "stay informed" - but rather wish it didn't sound so urgent and harsh. Why doesn't AI offer a more supportive conclusion? It could easily have ended on a much lighter note about how, once you've learnt the ropes, you'll be able to live a fulfilling life where you still get to eat food you love.

So what do you think? Should we let AI take over the world or do we need to interfere? I'd love to know your thoughts below!