The Burden of Living with Crohn’s and Celiac Disease

Studies have largely debated the extent of the connection between Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, but all conclude that Crohn’s is more common in those with celiac than in the general population. Overlapping symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, iron deficiency anemia, and short stature. A diagnosis of celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease alone can be life altering and a difficult adjustment for children, adolescents, and their families. Diagnosed together, it’s even more challenging. So, how can a medical team help young adults living with both conditions have a positive quality of life? How are the treatments for Crohn’s different than the treatment for celiac disease with a gluten-free diet? Do Crohn’s symptoms come and go, or once treated, stay away? What do researchers know about the genetics of these diseases and the likelihood of passing them on to future children? We’ll discuss this and more on today’s episode of Boston Children's Answers: Raising Celiac. The Boston Children's Answers: Raising Celiac is made possible by the generous support of the Global Autoimmune Institute.