Foods that contain wheat, rye, oats, and barley must be eliminated from the diet. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be needed to correct nutritional deficiencies. The stress of a chronic disorder can sometimes be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See celiac disease - support group . Untreated, the disorder can cause life threatening complications.
Symptoms usually disappear within several weeks after the person begins a gluten-free diet .
The gluten-free diet must be followed continuously or the symptoms will return. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as rickets and osteomalacia are common complications. Other complications include pancreas disorders, damage to the nerves, infertility , miscarriage , and other disorders. People with celiac disease may be at a greater risk for lymphoma and intestinal cancers. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms develop that are suggestive of celiac disease.