Ms. Judith Dixon
People often ask if there is a distinction between a wheat allergy and celiac disease. There is a definite difference between the two. Adults and children can be allergic to wheat. They should avoid only wheat products. Reading labels is imperative for them. They have an IgE (immunologic response) to wheat protein. This a Type I allergic reaction. Most wheat-allergic children out grow this particular allergy.
Celiac disease or celiac sprue is a permanent adverse reaction to gluten. This is followed by ingestion of wheat, rye, epithelial cells of the small intestinal become damaged. These cells are vital for digestion and absorption. Mucosal enzymes are also damaged and altered. These results in diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, anemia, bone pain, chronic fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps. In children it can also cause growth retardation and failure to gain weight age appropriately. Celiac disease is an inherited trait. In the United States this disease affects about 1 in every 3,000 people. It occurs more frequently in Europeans than Americans. Celiac disease has been predominantly almost non-existent in individuals of Chinese or of African descent. The diagnosis is usually a small bowel biopsy. Blood tests are also conducted. This procedure is not very reliable with children.