Celiac Disease Specialist
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Stephen Steele, MD
Gastroenterologist & Internal Medicine Specialist located in Texarkana, TX
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that affects the structure and function of your small intestine. Though a common gastrointestinal condition, many people with celiac disease go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. Stephen Steele, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist in Texarkana, Texas, who specializes in diagnosing and treating celiac disease. For expert care, call the office or schedule a consultation online today.
Celiac Disease Q&A
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is a digestive and immune system disorder triggered by gluten, which is a protein naturally found in wheat, barley, and rye.
When people with celiac disease eat food with gluten, their immune system overreacts to the protein, attacking the small intestine. Over time, the constant attack causes inflammation and damage to your small intestine that affects digestion and absorption, leading to malnutrition.
You may be at greater risk of celiac disease if it runs in your family. Though typically diagnosed in childhood, celiac disease may go undiagnosed for years because symptoms can be diverse.
What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
Symptoms of celiac disease vary in type and severity. It’s not uncommon for people with the condition to have symptoms that come and go.
Common symptoms of celiac disease include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Gas
- Loose, greasy, or foul-smelling stools
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Joint pain
- Depression
- Dermatitis
- Infertility
In children, celiac disease may affect growth and development. It can also cause other health problems like anemia or nutritional deficiencies due to poor absorption.
In adults, celiac disease may be the underlying cause of your infertility, fatigue, or joint pain.
If you have any of these symptoms and no concrete explanation, schedule a consultation with Dr. Steele.
How is celiac disease diagnosed?
Dr. Steele conducts a comprehensive evaluation when you come in with concerns about celiac disease. During your visit, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and family history.
Dr. Steele performs a physical and runs various tests to help diagnose the underlying cause of your gastrointestinal symptoms.
To diagnose celiac disease, he may run bloodwork to look for antibodies associated with the autoimmune condition. If you have the antibodies, Dr. Steele may perform an upper endoscopy and biopsy of your small intestine to confirm a diagnosis and assess tissue damage.
How is celiac disease treated?
Primary treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods, medications, and other products you may potentially ingest (toothpaste, mouthwash) that contain wheat, barley, or rye or their byproducts.
Dr. Steele provides specific diet instructions to help you create a healthy, balanced meal plan while avoiding foods with gluten. He may refer you to a registered dietitian for a customized plan, and he also prescribes vitamins to improve nutritional health.
Your prognosis if you have celiac disease is good as long as you can maintain a gluten-free diet. Dr. Steele schedules regular follow-ups to monitor your health and adjust treatment as needed.
To schedule your celiac disease consultation, call the office of Stephen Steele, MD, or book an appointment online today.