09/04/2025
Recently, Olympic swimming champion Rebecca Adlington revealed that she has been diagnosed with Coeliac Disease, a condition that affects a significant portion of the population. As more and more individuals are diagnosed with this autoimmune disorder, it’s important to raise awareness about what Coeliac Disease is, how it affects the body, and what steps you can take to ensure a proper diagnosis and management of the condition.
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten–a protein found in wheat, barley and rye–causes damage to the small intestine. The immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the lining of the small intestine when gluten is consumed, leading to inflammation and damage to the villi, the tiny hair-like structures that help absorbs nutrients.
This damage can result in malabsorption of nutrients, leading to various symptoms and potentially serious long-term health issues if left untreated.
Key Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
The symptoms of Coeliac Disease can vary widely from person to person and may sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include:
- Digestive issues: Diarrhoea, constipation, bloating and stomach cramps
- Fatigue: Constant tiredness or fatigue due to nutrient deficiencies
- Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating normally
- Skin rashes: Particularly a blistering rash known as dermatitis herpetiformis
- Joint pain: Stiffness or discomfort in the joints
- Mood disturbances: Anxiety, depression or irritability may also occur
However, not everyone with Coeliac Disease experiences digestive symptoms. Some people may present with more vague or atypical signs such as headaches, infertility issues or even neurological symptoms like tingling in the hands or feet.
Coeliac Disease in the UK: Key Stats
Coeliac Disease is thought to affect approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide, but studies suggest that many cases remain undiagnosed. In the UK alone, it’s estimated that around 1 in 100 people are living with Coeliac Disease, but only 30% of these individuals are diagnosed. This means that a significant number of people may be suffering from the condition unknowingly.
Recent research has also shown that Coeliac Disease can develop at any age, and it is not just a condition affecting children. It is important for individuals, especially those with a family history of autoimmune diseases, to be aware of the signs and seek testing.
Why is Early Diagnosis Crucial?
Coeliac Disease is a lifelong condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as:
- Nutrient deficiencies: Poor absorption of essential nutrients, leading to conditions like anaemia, osteoporosis and delayed growth in children
- Increased risk of other autoimmune diseases: Including type 1 diabetes and autoimmune thyroid disease
- Increased risk of certain cancers: Particularly gastrointestinal cancers, when gluten is not eliminated from the diet
An early diagnosis and adherence to a gluten-free diet is crucial in managing Coeliac Disease. Following a gluten-free diet allows the small intestine to heal, reducing inflammation and helping to restore nutrient absorption.
At Randox Health, we offer a variety of tests that can help in the diagnosis and monitoring of Coeliac Disease. The Coeliac Disease panel tests for antibodies that are commonly elevated in individuals with Coeliac Disease, including:
- Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG-IgA): This is the most commonly used test to diagnose Coeliac Disease. High levels of tTG-IgA are often present in individuals with the condition
Test Today
At Randox Health, we offer comprehensive health packages that include tests for coeliac disease:
- Everyman|Everywoman: A full body health check that assesses up to 150 biomarkers, including those related to digestive and nutritional health.
- Discovery: A comprehensive health assessment that provides early detection of over 20 diseases, including autoimmune conditions like coeliac disease.
- Genetic Coeliac Disease Test: A genetic test to identify the HLA-DQ risk variant, helping determine if you are genetically predisposed to coeliac disease.
How can you manage Coeliac Disease?
Once diagnosed, the most effective treatment for Coeliac Disease is the strict elimination of gluten from the diet. This involves avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley and rye, as well as ensuring that no cross-contamination occurs with gluten-containing foods. Gluten-free alternatives are widely available, and many people with Coeliac Disease find that once they have fully adapted to a gluten-free diet, their symptoms improve, and they feel much better.
Rebecca Adlington’s recent diagnosis of Coeliac Disease sheds light on an important condition that affects many people without them even knowing it. With more public figures sharing their stories, we can break down the stigma and raise awareness about the symptoms and need for early detection.
Stay informed, take control of your health, and if you think you might have Coeliac Disease, don’t wait to get tested. Early intervention can make all the difference.