Celiac disease is a serious disease caused by an immunologic reaction to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and triticale. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may experience diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and gas. abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting and constipation. Celiac disease is the more serious of the two disorders as it may cause damage to the lining of the small intestine. Celiac disease may also cause anemia, bone loss, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, joint pain and nervous system injury. There is no cure for celiac disease, but maintaining a gluten free diet may alleviate symptoms.

IBS is a condition that mainly affects the large intestine (colon), while celiac disease mainly affects the small intestine. IBS is a “functional” disorder, which means that the digestive system is not working like it should, but not due to damage.

If laboratory testing suggests Celiac disease, individuals should see a Gastroenterologist for endoscopy and small bowel biopsy which will provide a definitive diagnosis. Different tests will provide results depending on the symptoms that an individual is showing.