Weekly Health Insights: Coeliac Disease
This week our team of Bondi doctors and Bondi GPs at your local Bondi Medical Centre discuss Coeliac disease.
Coinciding with Coeliac Awareness Week – an important annual event dedicated to increasing public knowledge about coeliac disease and its impact on health. Running from 13th to 20th March, this awareness campaign highlights the importance of early diagnosis, proper dietary management, and the need for increased community support for those living with coeliac disease.
At Ocean Medical – Bondi Medical Centre our female GPs in Bondi are committed to raising awareness about coeliac disease and providing expert care for those affected. If you suspect you may have coeliac disease, our team of Bondi doctors are here to help with comprehensive screening, diagnosis, and management options.
What is Coeliac Disease and How Does It Develop?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine’s lining. This leads to malabsorption of essential nutrients, resulting in a range of health issues.
Over time, continuous exposure to gluten causes inflammation and damage to the villi, tiny finger-like projections in the small intestine responsible for nutrient absorption. This damage can result in nutritional deficiencies, digestive discomfort, and systemic complications if left untreated.
Diagnosis: How is Coeliac Disease Detected?
Early detection of coeliac disease is essential to prevent complications. At Ocean Medical Centre on Bondi Road, our Bondi doctors can refer you for testing options to confirm a diagnosis. These include:
- Blood Tests:
- The tTG-IgA test (Tissue Transglutaminase Antibodies test) is the most common and detects antibodies produced in response to gluten.
- The EMA (Endomysial Antibodies) test is also used to confirm immune reactions.
- Genetic Testing:
- HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genetic markers can help determine a person’s genetic risk of developing coeliac disease.
- Endoscopy with Biopsy:
- If blood tests indicate the possibility of coeliac disease, a referral can be made to a gastroenterologist for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is performed to take small tissue samples (biopsy) from the small intestine to assess damage.
- Capsule Endoscopy and Imaging:
- In some cases, a gastroenterologist can also arrange a capsule endoscopy, which involves swallowing a tiny camera, may be used to capture images of the small intestine.
Risk Factors for Coeliac Disease in Bondi Residents
Coeliac disease can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Residents in Bondi and surrounding areas may be at risk due to:
- Family History: Having a parent or sibling with coeliac disease increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Genetics: Presence of the HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 genes.
- Frequent Gluten Exposure: Consuming high amounts of gluten in processed foods.
- Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like Type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease increase the risk.
- Gut Microbiome Changes: Poor gut health, often influenced by diet and lifestyle, can contribute to immune system changes.
Protective Measures: Can Coeliac Disease Be Prevented?
While there is no definitive way to prevent coeliac disease in those genetically predisposed, certain lifestyle and dietary choices may help in reducing risk or managing symptoms effectively:
- Early Diagnosis and Screening: If you have a family history of coeliac disease, regular screening can help detect early signs and prevent complications.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Avoiding highly processed foods and focusing on a nutrient-rich diet may help promote better gut health.
- Probiotic-Rich Foods: A diverse gut microbiome may help regulate immune responses.
- Medical Guidance from local Bondi GPs: Consulting female doctors at our Bondi medical centre ensures you receive personalised dietary guidance and testing if you experience symptoms.
Ocean Medical Practice Supports Coeliac Awareness in Bondi
At Ocean Medical Practice on Bondi Road, our experienced female GPs specialise in diagnosing and managing coeliac disease. Our Bondi doctors provide tailored healthcare, ensuring patients receive accurate diagnoses, dietary support, and long-term management strategies.
If you experience symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, diarrhoea, unexplained weight loss, or nutritional deficiencies, we encourage you to book an appointment with one of our Bondi GPs today.
For expert medical care and guidance, visit our medical centre on Bondi Road. We are committed to helping our community stay healthy and well-informed.
Book your consultation today at Ocean Medical Practice!
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our team of Bondi doctors & GPs today.
