Celiac Disease in Northwest Arkansas
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Find a ProviderAbout celiac disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune problem that causes digestive problems after you eat gluten-containing foods. Gluten is a type of protein present in many types of grains. When gluten enters the small intestine, it sets off an immune response. As this continues, over time, this immune response may injure your small intestine lining and inhibit your small bowel from absorbing certain essential vitamins.
Celiac disease is a genetic disorder found particularly (but not solely) in individuals of Northern European genes. Celiac disease is the most common genetic disease in Europe. Current research shows that 1 in approximately 133 individuals in the U.S. has the problem. There is hope for individuals suffering from celiac disease in Arkansas. For more information regarding celiac disease treatment and how to appropriately manage the condition to help you improve your quality of life, get in touch with GI Alliance of Arkansas and set up an appointment with our expert GI physicians.
What are the signs of celiac disease?
The symptoms of celiac disease might differ from patient to patient. Because of the variability in symptoms, it may be hard to know if you are experiencing celiac disease. A number of patients develop celiac disease when they are young, although others could begin to notice the condition when they are older. The condition can vary immensely between young individuals and older individuals.
Some of the markers of this condition include:
- Anemia
- Bloating or gas
- Osteoporosis
- Headaches or migraines
- Discolored teeth
- Skin blistering and rash
- Nervous system problems
- Feeling fatigued
- Unexplained weight loss
- Less frequent bowel movements
- Loose bowel movements
- Joint discomfort
- Mouth sores
- Irritability
In the event that you have more than one of these symptoms, particularly when consuming gluten, get in touch with our Arkansas gastroenterology office to schedule a visit.
What are the treatments for celiac disease?
There are currently no drugs that directly target or eradicate the symptoms that gluten-containing foods cause in those who live with celiac disease. The most important measure you can take for your health if you experience celiac disease is to remove gluten-containing products from your eating routine, but partnering with the physicians at GI Alliance of Arkansas can allow you to best manage your GI health. By not eating gluten, you can be symptom-free, allowing the tissue lining inside the small bowel will recover. Foods with gluten include:
- Some packaged products, such as processed cheeses or instant dessert mixes
- Some packaged sauces
- Baked treats
- Grains including rye, barley, and wheat
- Wheat pasta and bread
Take care of your health
Request a consultation with one of the GI providers at GI Alliance of Arkansas to learn more about what you can do to improve the health of your digestive system. Our staff looks forward to helping you boost your well-being with methods that are ideal for your needs. If you are seeking treatment for celiac disease in Arkansas, please connect with our facility today.
Celiac Disease FAQs
How are cases of celiac disease confirmed?
The gastrointestinal specialists at GI Alliance of Arkansas may utilize blood testing to help confirm celiac disease. Such analyses may be performed to detect the presence of antibodies that are reacting to gluten in the body. In some cases, a biopsy of the small bowel might be advised. Genetic testing may also be utilized to help measure the risk of developing celiac disease.
Is celiac disease a hereditary condition?
Celiac disease can be genetic in some cases. While having a family history of celiac disease does not always mean a person will experience the condition, it might cause them to be more susceptible to developing it. Some people who have been diagnosed with celiac disease are not genetically predisposed.
Is celiac disease a curable disorder?
Presently, there is no identified way to cure celiac disease. The only option to prevent ongoing effects is to consume a gluten-free diet. Clinical research studies are being carried out to help determine other treatment methods.
Are gluten intolerance and celiac disease the same?
While gluten intolerance and celiac disease have many of the same effects, they are actually different health conditions. Celiac disease is an autoimmune issue that causes people to have a negative reaction to gluten. It can lead to complications in the gastrointestinal system. In comparison, a gluten intolerance is a digestive issue involving a non-celiac gluten sensitivity that usually does not cause permanent GI damage.
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Great clinic, Cheryl Walsh and Dr. Moore are great.
Dr. O'Keefe really took the time to explain things in an easy to understand way & I would highly recommend him! His nurse Claudia is wonderful as well!
Very nice and clean office, building, etc. Very kind from the front desk to the nurses and doctor, explained everything Very well and give you the patient all the options but gives you the best professional opinion. Great care team.
I really like going to see Dr O’keefe at G I Alliance. I have a complicated case. Dr. O’Keefe always listens to me and takes the time to answer my questions without trying to rush me out of the office like some doctors do.
Everyone was friendly and professional and I felt like Dr. Ellison really listened to my health concerns!
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