Awareness Programme for patients suffering from Celiac Diseases (Wheat Allergy) held at DMCH

Ludhiana, August 31, 2014: 2nd Celiac Awareness Project was held today in Dumra Auditroium at DMCH, Ludhiana. Secretary of DMCH Managing Society-Prem Kumar Gupta formally inaugurated the function by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Also present on the occasion were Sunila Gupta, Dr Ajit Sood (Professor & Head of Gastroentrology), Dr Varun Gupta, Dr HS Bains, Dr Neena Sood, Dr HS Dhooria, Dr Vandana Middha and Chief Dietician-Ritu Sudhakar. 

During the programme, Dr Ajit Sood widely discussed the signs and symptoms of celiac disease among those present on the occasion. He mentioned that the signs and symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly but the common signs are diarrhea and weight loss. Most people with celiac disease experience few or no digestive signs or symptoms. Only about one-third of people diagnosed with celiac disease experience diarrhea, and about half have weight loss.

Twenty percent of people with celiac disease have constipation, and 10 percent are obese.

Celiac disease tends to run in families and the treating doctor should made aware of this family history. It was advised by the experts that if anyone has diarrhea or digestive discomfort that lasts for more than two weeks then, a doctor should be consulted. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying a gluten-free diet.  Patients suffering from Celiac disease should take gluten-free diet. Many healthy and delicious foods are naturally gluten-free which includes Beans, seeds, nuts in their natural, unprocessed form fresh eggs, fresh meats, fish and poultry (not breaded, batter-coated or marinated)Fruits and vegetable Most dairy products

Gluten causes inflammation in the small intestines of people with celiac disease. Eating a gluten-free diet helps people with celiac disease control their signs and symptoms and prevent complications.

The programme had also Question & Answer session followed by fun-filled activities and glutten gree buffet for all.

In addition to digestive problems, other signs and symptoms of celiac disease include:

?  Anemia, usually resulting from iron deficiency

?  Loss of bone density (osteoporosis) or softening of bone

?  Skin rash

?  Damage to dental enamel

?  Headaches and fatigue

?  Nervous system injury, like numbness and tingling in the feet and hands, and possible problems with balance.

?  Joint pain

?  Neurologic symptoms, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disability, headaches and lack of muscle coordination