Welcome to the NorthShore Celiac Disease and Gluten Related Disorders Clinic, where our goal is to provide comprehensive care for patients with celiac disease and gluten related disorders. From making the proper diagnosis, to initiating treatment and education on a gluten-free diet, to disease monitoring for complications, our team of experts aim to guide patients through the process of managing these intestinal diseases.
Gluten is a protein found in grains, such as wheat, rye and barley. When consumed by people who are intolerant, a host of symptoms can develop, including:
- abdominal pain
- bloating
- diarrhea
- flatulence
In recent years, gluten sensitivity has emerged as a growing disease entity. Two disease entities that are affected by gluten are celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. While celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is a non-allergic, non-autoimmune condition. Celiac disease affects approximately one percent of the U.S. population. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is estimated to be six to 10 times more prevalent.
Our multidisciplinary team guides patients through the process of managing their disease and offers the latest treatment strategies. Our services include:
- Expert diagnosis and/or confirmation of celiac disease through blood work, upper endoscopy biopsy and/or genetic testing.
- Collaboration with a GI pathologist who reviews our patient biopsy slides to confirm the diagnosis.
- Screening and monitoring of patients with celiac disease for consequences associated with the disease. These include looking for nutritional deficiencies, deterioration of bone health, thyroid problems, infertility and a host of other medical concerns.
- Coordinating health maintenance for celiac disease patients to make sure they are up to date with necessary vaccinations.
- Provide access to our expert celiac disease dietician who educates on the intricacies of the gluten-free diet.
- A celiac disease Information and support group dedicated to helping patients and their families and friends in order to cope more effectively with celiac disease.
- Psychology services geared toward the pediatric population for assistance in coming to terms with this diagnosis.
- Clinical trials and research to investigate future treatment options and to further the understanding of celiac disease.
For More Information
For more information about celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, please call 847.657.1900.