WHAT IS CELIAC DISEASE
Celiac disease is a disease of the small bowel. It is a chronic immune mediated condition in which exposure to gluten leads to inflammation and damage of the small intestinal lining in genetically predisposed individuals. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Ongoing exposure results in villous atrophy, reduced nutrient absorption, and a wide range of systemic effects. Celiac disease affects approximately 1 to 1.5 percent of the population and occurs more frequently in women than in men.
HOW IS CELIAC DISEASE DIAGNOSED?
Diagnosis begins with blood testing while the individual is consuming gluten. The primary screening test is IgA anti tissue transglutaminase. Total serum IgA is measured to exclude IgA deficiency, which may cause false negative results.
If antibody testing is positive, the diagnosis is confirmed through a small bowel biopsy performed by a gastroenterologist, demonstrating characteristic intestinal changes.
Genetic testing for HLA DQ2 and DQ8 may be used in selected cases to help exclude the diagnosis when blood tests are negative.
WHAT SYMPTOMS CAN CELIAC DISEASE CAUSE?
Symptoms vary widely and may be intestinal or extraintestinal. Some individuals have minimal or no digestive symptoms.
Possible manifestations include:
- Digestive complaints such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, reflux, and gas.
- Nutrient deficiencies including low iron, low ferritin, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D
- Chronic fatigue and reduced concentration
- Bone and joint issues including osteopenia, osteoporosis, and musculoskeletal pain
- Reproductive concerns such as infertility, menstrual irregularities, and recurrent miscarriage
- Skin and hair changes, including hair shedding related to micronutrient deficiency or associated autoimmune disease
- Neurological symptoms such as headaches, migraines, neuropathy, anxiety, and low mood
Because symptoms can be subtle or non-specific, diagnosis is often delayed.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR CELIAC DISEASE?
Treatment consists of a strict lifelong gluten free diet. Complete avoidance of gluten is essential to allow intestinal healing and prevent long term complications.
Management may include:
- Dietary education with a qualified dietitian
- Correction of vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Monitoring of celiac antibodies to assess dietary adherence
- Gastroenterology follow up when required to assess mucosal recovery
Most patients improve significantly with consistent gluten avoidance.
WHY VISIT DONIA MARIA CLINIC IF YOU HAVE CELIAC DISEASE AND HAIR LOSS?
At Donia Maria Clinic, we understand that celiac disease frequently affects the hair and scalp. Hair loss is commonly driven by iron deficiency, micronutrient depletion, telogen effluvium, or coexisting autoimmune conditions.
Each consultation is approached with clinical precision and personalised care. We assess scalp health, hair cycling, blood markers, nutritional status, medical history, lifestyle factors, and emotional wellbeing. Our goal is to identify the true contributors to hair loss rather than offering generic solutions.
Advanced diagnostics may be used, including DNA testing, to uncover genetic factors influencing inflammation, nutrient absorption, and hair growth. This allows for the creation of targeted, evidence based treatment plans designed to support long term hair and scalp health.
WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS?
Book a consultation with trichologist Donia Maria Messeh for a comprehensive evaluation of celiac related hair loss and scalp health. You will receive a clear, personalised plan grounded in medical evidence and tailored to your individual needs. Click the link below to start the process.