Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease is a condition where the immune system reacts to gluten and damages the gut. It is managed by following a gluten-free diet for life.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- Coeliac disease is an immune reaction to gluten that damages the gut.
- It is important not to cut out gluten before being tested.
- It is managed with a gluten-free diet for life.
On this page (5 sections)
Overview
Coeliac disease is a condition where the immune system reacts to gluten — a protein found in wheat, barley and rye — and damages the lining of the gut. This can stop the body absorbing nutrients properly [1].
Symptoms
Symptoms can include diarrhoea, tummy pain, bloating and wind, tiredness, and weight loss. Some people have few or no gut symptoms, so it can be easy to miss [1].
Diagnosis
Coeliac disease is diagnosed with a blood test, sometimes followed by a gut biopsy. It is important not to start a gluten-free diet before being tested, as this can make the results inaccurate — a GP can advise [1].
Management
There is no cure, but following a gluten-free diet for life should control the symptoms and prevent long-term complications. This is needed even if symptoms are mild [1]. A dietitian can help you manage the diet.
When to see a doctor
See a GP if you have ongoing symptoms that could be coeliac disease, or if a close relative has it, so you can be tested [1].
Sources
- NHS. Coeliac disease (opens in new tab) Last reviewed 31 March 2023. Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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