Like diabetes, this is an autoimmune condition, which is more common in people with Type 1. In coeliac disease the body reacts to gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye), which damages the gut lining and affects absorption of food. Symptoms can include stomach ache, diarrhoea, constipation, anaemia, poor growth and unexplained hypos. But sometimes there are no symptoms.
Your child should be screened for coeliac disease at diagnosis and again later if displaying symptoms. This is done by a blood test. Some hospitals screen more regularly than this when annual blood tests are taken. If the blood test is positive the diagnosis will be confirmed by a gut biopsy under general anaesthetic. The only treatment is a permanent change in diet to avoid gluten, and it is essential that you see a dietitian who can advise on both diabetes and coeliac disease.
If you suspect your child might have coeliac disease, you should not start them on a gluten-free diet until you have a definite diagnosis. Following a gluten-free diet before a test for coeliac disease may give an inaccurate result.
For more information, visit www.coeliac.org.uk