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CSA/USA,Inc.

Our Mission Statement

The mission of the Oklahoma Celiac Support Group is to make a positive difference in the lives of those living with Celiac Disease by providing support, education and opportunities to interact with fellow celiacs, as well as encourage the strict adherence to a gluten-free diet to promote a healthy and happy life.

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Celiac Disease --

Millions Have it and Don't Know

Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue and gluten intolerance, is an intolerance to glidian, a protein found in wheat, oats, barley and rye. It is more severe than an allergic reaction and impairs the digestive system. The treatment is a life long Gluten Free Diet, which means no wheat, oats, barley or rye.
Celiac Disease affects infants, children, young adults, adults and seniors. It takes an average of 11 years before the condition is correctly diagnosed. Even though 1 in every 128 Americans have Celiac Disease, 97% are undiagnosed due to poor awareness. Untreated Celiac Disease can result in Type 1 Diabetes, Thyroid Disease, Lupus, Liver Disease, Infertility and Cancer.

Prevalence of Celiac Disease

Disease # of Americans affected

Celiac Disease 3 million

Epilepsy 2.8 million

Alzheimer's Disease 2 million

Ulcerative Colitis 500,000

Crohn's Disease 500,000

Multiple Sclerosis 333,000

Cystic Fibrosis 30,000

Source: National Institutes of Health.
Celiac Disease is nicknamed "the Great Mimic" because its symptoms are similar to many other illnesses. Symptoms vary from person to person and can include no symptoms to many different symptoms.
Untreated Celiac Disease can lead to Intestinal and lymphatic cancers, Autoimmune conditions like Type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome (drying of moisture-producing glands, affecting eyes, mouth, skin, etc.), and primary biliary cirrhosis, a liver condition.

What to Look For:

Celiac Disease is nicknamed "the Great Mimic" because its symptoms are similar to many other illnesses. Symptoms vary from person to person and can include no symptoms to many different symptoms.
Symptoms may include:
Constipation

Diarrhea

Indigestion

Abdominal Pain and/or Cramping

Fatigue

Achy Joints

Bloating

Dermatitis Herpetiformis, an itchy rash

Reflux

Vomiting

Diarrhea and/or Constipation

Irritability

Depression

Anemia

Osteoporosis

Infertility

Chronic Hepatitis

Mouth Ulcers

Additionally, particularly in children:

Crankiness

Short Stature

Unexplained Weight Loss

Dental Discoloration

Failure to Thrive
An initial diagnosis can be achieved with a blood test. Confirmation of the diagnosis can be made by an intestinal biopsy performed by endoscopy.

Disclaimer:

The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website are for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician. The text has NOT been submitted for approval by the CSA/USA, Inc. medical board.