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The information contained in this section has been procured from the National Celiac Association. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . What to do when "Glutened" ​ Getting exposed to gluten is no fun and can happen to any of us despite our best efforts. Unfortunately, there is not much one can do once gluten has accidentally been ingested, but here are some tips that might be helpful for recovery following a gluten exposure: cooking blog ​ ​ Make sure to drink plenty of fluids (at least 64 fl. oz per day). Many times, a gluten exposure will cause vomiting and/or diarrhea. It is important to replace any fluids lost to help the body recover and avoid dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids (at least 64 fl. oz per day). Many times, a gluten exposure will cause vomiting and/or diarrhea. It is important to replace any fluids lost to help the body recover and avoid dehydration. ​ Some people find that drinking peppermint or ginger tea is helpful to soothe the GI tract and reduce nausea and cramping. ​ If you are experiencing lots of cramping, gas and diarrhea, eat small frequent meals, instead of large ones. ​ Avoid very spicy or fatty foods as they could increase your digestive symptoms. ​ Soups/chicken soup and broths are good options while recovering, just make sure they are gluten-free! ​ Get lots of rest to help your body heal and recover. ​ Seek medical attention if you are experiencing severe symptoms. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause serious dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that may require intravenous fluid and electrolyte repletion. ​ Just a note of caution about enzymes. There are several enzymes marketed to break down gluten. It is important to note that none of these have been studied or approved for use in individuals with celiac disease. You can read more about enzymes and gluten in this article by Melinda Dennis, MS, RDN, LDN: https://nationalceliac.org/celiac-disease-questions/gliadinx-product-digestive-enzyme-supplement/ ​ Source: National Celiac Association HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Autoimmune Disorders

The information contained in this section has been procured from John Hopkins Medicine , the Mayo Clinic and VeryWellHealth. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . What is Crohn's Disease? ​ Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes inflammation of your digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss and malnutrition. ​ Inflammation caused by Crohn's disease can involve different areas of the digestive tract in different people. This inflammation often spreads into the deeper layers of the bowel. ​ Crohn's disease can be both painful and debilitating, and sometimes may lead to life-threatening complications. While there's no known cure for Crohn's disease, therapies can greatly reduce its signs and symptoms and even bring about long-term remission and healing of inflammation. With treatment, many people with Crohn's disease are able to function well. Cooking Blog Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Who Gets Crohn's Disease? ​ Crohn's disease appears early in life; approximately one-sixth of patients have symptoms before 15 years of age. Although the cause is unknown, doctors suspect a genetic influence, since many members of the same family may be affected. Crohn's disease affects the Jewish population more than the general population. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ Causes ​ The exact cause of Crohn's disease remains unknown. Previously, diet and stress were suspected, but now doctors know that these factors may aggravate, but don't cause, Crohn's disease. Several factors, such as heredity and a malfunctioning immune system, likely play a role in its development. ​ Immune system. It's possible that a virus or bacterium may trigger Crohn's disease; however, scientists have yet to identify such a trigger. When your immune system tries to fight off the invading microorganism, an abnormal immune response causes the immune system to attack the cells in the digestive tract, too. Heredity. Crohn's is more common in people who have family members with the disease, so genes may play a role in making people more susceptible. However, most people with Crohn's disease don't have a family history of the disease. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ What are the symptoms of Crohn's Disease? ​ In Crohn's disease, any part of your small or large intestine can be involved, and it may be continuous or may involve multiple segments. In some people, the disease is confined to the colon, which is part of the large intestine. ​ Signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease can range from mild to severe. They usually develop gradually, but sometimes will come on suddenly, without warning. You may also have periods of time when you have no signs or symptoms (remission). ​ When the disease is active, signs and symptoms may include: ​ Diarrhea Fever Fatigue Abdominal pain and cramping Blood in your stool Mouth sores Reduced appetite and weight loss Pain or drainage near or around the anus due to inflammation from a tunnel into the skin (fistula) ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Other signs and symptoms ​ People with severe Crohn's disease may also experience: ​ Inflammation of skin, eyes and joints Inflammation of the liver or bile ducts Kidney stones Iron deficiency (anemia) Delayed growth or sexual development, in children ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ ​ Risk factors ​ Risk factors for Crohn's disease may include: ​ Age. Crohn's disease can occur at any age, but you're likely to develop the condition when you're young. Most people who develop Crohn's disease are diagnosed before they're around 30 years old. Ethnicity. Although Crohn's disease can affect any ethnic group, whites have the highest risk, especially people of Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish descent. However, the incidence of Crohn's disease is increasing among Black people who live in North America and the United Kingdom. Family history. You're at higher risk if you have a first-degree relative, such as a parent, sibling or child, with the disease. As many as 1 in 5 people with Crohn's disease has a family member with the disease. Cigarette smoking. Cigarette smoking is the most important controllable risk factor for developing Crohn's disease. Smoking also leads to more-severe disease and a greater risk of having surgery. If you smoke, it's important to stop. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve), diclofenac sodium and others. While they do not cause Crohn's disease, they can lead to inflammation of the bowel that makes Crohn's disease worse. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Complications ​ Crohn's disease may lead to one or more of the following complications: ​ Bowel obstruction. Crohn's disease can affect the entire thickness of the intestinal wall. Over time, parts of the bowel can scar and narrow, which may block the flow of digestive contents. You may require surgery to remove the diseased portion of your bowel. Ulcers. Chronic inflammation can lead to open sores (ulcers) anywhere in your digestive tract, including your mouth and anus, and in the genital area (perineum). Fistulas. Sometimes ulcers can extend completely through the intestinal wall, creating a fistula — an abnormal connection between different body parts. Fistulas can develop between your intestine and your skin, or between your intestine and another organ. Fistulas near or around the anal area (perianal) are the most common kind. When fistulas develop in the abdomen, food may bypass areas of the bowel that are necessary for absorption. Fistulas may form between loops of bowel, in the bladder or vagina, or through the skin, causing continuous drainage of bowel contents to your skin. In some cases, a fistula may become infected and form an abscess, which can be life-threatening if not treated. Anal fissure. This is a small tear in the tissue that lines the anus or in the skin around the anus where infections can occur. It's often associated with painful bowel movements and may lead to a perianal fistula. Malnutrition. Diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping may make it difficult for you to eat or for your intestine to absorb enough nutrients to keep you nourished. It's also common to develop anemia due to low iron or vitamin B-12 caused by the disease. Colon cancer. Having Crohn's disease that affects your colon increases your risk of colon cancer. General colon cancer screening guidelines for people without Crohn's disease call for a colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50. Ask your doctor whether you need to have this test done sooner and more frequently. Other health problems. Crohn's disease can cause problems in other parts of the body. Among these problems are anemia, skin disorders, osteoporosis, arthritis, and gallbladder or liver disease. Medication risks. Certain Crohn's disease drugs that act by blocking functions of the immune system are associated with a small risk of developing cancers such as lymphoma and skin cancers. They also increase risk of infection. Corticosteroids can be associated with a risk of osteoporosis, bone fractures, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes and high blood pressure, among other conditions. Work with your doctor to determine risks and benefits of medications. Blood clots. Crohn's disease increases the risk of blood clots in veins and arteries. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Diagnosis ​ Your doctor will likely diagnose Crohn's disease only after ruling out other possible causes for your signs and symptoms. There is no single test to diagnose Crohn's disease. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ ​ Lab tests ​ Your doctor will likely use a combination of tests to help confirm a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, including: ​ Blood tests. Your doctor may suggest blood tests to check for anemia — a condition in which there aren't enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues — or to check for signs of infection. Stool studies. You may need to provide a stool sample so that your doctor can test for hidden (occult) blood or organisms, such as parasites, in your stool. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Testing Procedures ​ Colonoscopy. This test allows your doctor to view your entire colon and the very end of your ileum (terminal ileum) using a thin, flexible, lighted tube with a camera at the end. During the procedure, your doctor can also take small samples of tissue (biopsy) for laboratory analysis, which may help to make a diagnosis. Clusters of inflammatory cells called granulomas, if present, help essentially confirm the diagnosis of Crohn's. Computerized tomography (CT). You may have a CT scan — a special X-ray technique that provides more detail than a standard X-ray does. This test looks at the entire bowel as well as at tissues outside the bowel. CT enterography is a special CT scan that provides better images of the small bowel. This test has replaced barium X-rays in many medical centers. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI scanner uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues. MRI is particularly useful for evaluating a fistula around the anal area (pelvic MRI) or the small intestine (MR enterography). Capsule endoscopy. For this test, you swallow a capsule that has a camera in it. The camera takes pictures of your small intestine and transmits them to a recorder you wear on your belt. The images are then downloaded to a computer, displayed on a monitor and checked for signs of Crohn's disease. The camera exits your body painlessly in your stool. You may still need endoscopy with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of Crohn's disease. Capsule endoscopy should not be performed if there is a bowel obstruction. Balloon-assisted enteroscopy. For this test, a scope is used in conjunction with a device called an overtube. This enables the doctor to look further into the small bowel where standard endoscopes don't reach. This technique is useful when capsule endoscopy shows abnormalities but the diagnosis is still in question. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Imaging Scans ​ An imaging scan is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to obtain detailed images of the affected area. A computed tomography (CT) scan uses powerful X-ray technology to produce the images. Other imaging scans your doctor may recommend include: ​ Double Contrast Barium Enema X-ray . This is a specialized X-ray, using a contrast material to highlight the affected area. During the X-ray, your doctor can clearly see the right colon and the ileum (part of the small intestine), the two areas most often involved in Crohn's disease. Before the procedure, you will need to clear your colon of any stool. Preparations may include a liquid diet, enema or laxative. During a barium enema: ​ A barium preparation (contrast material) is inserted through a rectal tube. The barium outlines the colon, highlighting any abnormalities. An X-ray is taken. Your doctor can look for evidence of Crohn's disease. ​ Small Bowel Series. This is a fast, safe procedure for visualizing the small bowel. During this procedure: ​ You drink a barium preparation. Overhead X-rays are taken at frequent intervals. When the barium reaches your small intestine, a fluoroscopy is performed. A fluoroscopy is a specialized X-ray that takes real-time, moving images of your internal structures. During the fluoroscopy, you will be moved into various positions. These X-rays reveal the extent of the disease and where any obstructions are located. ​ Enteroclysis. This is a more invasive, complex diagnostic procedure. However, it is more sensitive at detecting certain abnormalities. You may be sedated and the doctor will pass a tube through your nose and into your gastrointestinal tract. It is similar to a double-contrast barium enema. ​ Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. Two common endoscopic procedures for diagnosing Crohn's disease are a flexible sigmoidoscopy and a colonoscopy. A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower colon. A sigmoidoscope is a specialized endoscope that is a thin, flexible lighted tube that your doctor inserts inside you to see the affected area. A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower colon. During the procedure: ​ Your colon must be clear of stool so your doctor has good visibility. Preparations may include a liquid diet, enema and laxatives. Your doctor inserts the sigmoidoscope through the rectum and into the anus and large intestine. A biopsy forceps may be inserted through the scope in order to remove a small sample of tissue for further analysis. The procedure may cause some cramping or discomfort. ​ Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy examines the rectum and the entire colon. A colonoscopy allows for visualization further into the bowel than the sigmoidoscopy, in order to assess the progression of the disease and determine an effective course of therapy. During a colonoscopy: ​ Your colon must be clear of stool so your doctor has good visibility. Preparations may include a liquid diet, enema and laxatives. You are sedated before the procedure. Your doctor inserts the colonoscope through the rectum and into the anus and large intestine. A biopsy forceps may be inserted through the scope in order to remove a small sample of tissue for further analysis. The procedure may cause some cramping or discomfort. ​ Source: John Hopkins Medicine ​ Treatment ​ There is currently no cure for Crohn's disease, and there is no single treatment that works for everyone. One goal of medical treatment is to reduce the inflammation that triggers your signs and symptoms. Another goal is to improve long-term prognosis by limiting complications. In the best cases, this may lead not only to symptom relief but also to long-term remission. ​ Anti-inflammatory drugs Anti-inflammatory drugs are often the first step in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. They include: ​ ​ ​ ​ Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids such as prednisone and budesonide (Entocort EC) can help reduce inflammation in your body, but they don't work for everyone with Crohn's disease. Doctors generally use them only if you don't respond to other treatments. Corticosteroids may be used for short-term (three to four months) symptom improvement and to induce remission. Corticosteroids may also be used in combination with an immune system suppressor. Oral 5-aminosalicylates. These drugs include sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), which contains sulfa, and mesalamine (Asacol HD, Delzicol, others). Oral 5-aminosalicylates have been widely used in the past but now are generally considered of very limited benefit. ​ Immune system suppressors. These drugs also reduce inflammation, but they target your immune system, which produces the substances that cause inflammation. For some people, a combination of these drugs works better than one drug alone.Immune system suppressors include: ​ ​ Azathioprine (Azasan, Imuran) and mercaptopurine (Purinethol, Purixan). These are the most widely used immunosuppressants for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Taking them requires that you follow up closely with your doctor and have your blood checked regularly to look for side effects, such as a lowered resistance to infection and inflammation of the liver. They may also cause nausea and vomiting. Methotrexate (Trexall). This drug is sometimes used for people with Crohn's disease who don't respond well to other medications. You will need to be followed closely for side effects. ​ Biologics. This class of therapies targets proteins made by the immune system. Types of biologics used to treat Crohn's disease included: ​ ​ ​ ​ Ustekinumab (Stelara). This was recently approved to treat Crohn's disease by interfering with the action of an interleukin, which is a protein involved in inflammation. Natalizumab (Tysabri) and vedolizumab (Entyvio). These drugs work by stopping certain immune cell molecules — integrins — from binding to other cells in your intestinal lining. Because natalizumab is associated with a rare but serious risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy — a brain disease that usually leads to death or severe disability — you must be enrolled in a special restricted distribution program to use it. Vedolizumab recently was approved for Crohn's disease. It works like natalizumab but appears not to carry a risk of brain disease. Infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab (Humira) and certolizumab pegol (Cimzia). Also known as TNF inhibitors, these drugs work by neutralizing an immune system protein known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). ​ Antibiotics. Antibiotics can reduce the amount of drainage from fistulas and abscesses and sometimes heal them in people with Crohn's disease. Some researchers also think that antibiotics help reduce harmful intestinal bacteria that may play a role in activating the intestinal immune system, leading to inflammation. Frequently prescribed antibiotics include ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and metronidazole (Flagyl). ​ Other medications. In addition to controlling inflammation, some medications may help relieve your signs and symptoms, but always talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications. Depending on the severity of your Crohn's disease, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following: ​ ​ ​​ ​ Pain relievers. For mild pain, your doctor may recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) — but not other common pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve). These drugs are likely to make your symptoms worse and can make your disease worse as well. Anti-diarrheals. A fiber supplement, such as psyllium powder (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel), can help relieve mild to moderate diarrhea by adding bulk to your stool. For more severe diarrhea, loperamide (Imodium A-D) may be effective. ​Vitamins and supplements. If you're not absorbing enough nutrients, your doctor may recommend vitamins and nutritional supplements. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Nutrition therapy ​ Your doctor may recommend a special diet given by mouth or a feeding tube (enteral nutrition) or nutrients infused into a vein (parenteral nutrition) to treat your Crohn's disease. This can improve your overall nutrition and allow the bowel to rest. Bowel rest can reduce inflammation in the short term. Your doctor may use nutrition therapy short term and combine it with medications, such as immune system suppressors. Enteral and parenteral nutrition are typically used to get people healthier prior to surgery or when other medications fail to control symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend a low residue or low-fiber diet to reduce the risk of intestinal blockage if you have a narrowed bowel (stricture). A low residue diet is designed to reduce the size and number of your stools. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ ​ Surgery If diet and lifestyle changes, drug therapy, or other treatments don't relieve your signs and symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery. Nearly half of those with Crohn's disease will require at least one surgery. However, surgery does not cure Crohn's disease. ​ During surgery, your surgeon removes a damaged portion of your digestive tract and then reconnects the healthy sections. Surgery may also be used to close fistulas and drain abscesses. ​ The benefits of surgery for Crohn's disease are usually temporary. The disease often recurs, frequently near the reconnected tissue. The best approach is to follow surgery with medication to minimize the risk of recurrence. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ ​ Lifestyle and Home Remedies ​ Sometimes you may feel helpless when facing Crohn's disease. But changes in your diet and lifestyle may help control your symptoms and lengthen the time between flare-ups. ​ Diet. There's no firm evidence that what you eat actually causes inflammatory bowel disease. But certain foods and beverages can aggravate your signs and symptoms, especially during a flare-up. It can be helpful to keep a food diary to track what you're eating, as well as how you feel. If you discover that some foods are causing your symptoms to flare, you can try eliminating them. Here are some general dietary suggestions that may help to manage your condition: ​ Limit dairy products. Many people with inflammatory bowel disease find that problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas improve by limiting or eliminating dairy products. You may be lactose intolerant — that is, your body can't digest the milk sugar (lactose) in dairy foods. Using an enzyme product such as Lactaid may help. Eat small meals. You may find that you feel better eating five or six small meals a day rather than two or three larger ones. Drink plenty of liquids. Try to drink plenty of fluids daily. Water is best. Alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine stimulate your intestines and can make diarrhea worse, while carbonated drinks frequently produce gas. Consider multivitamins. Because Crohn's disease can interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients and because your diet may be limited, multivitamin and mineral supplements are often helpful. Check with your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements. Talk to a dietitian. If you begin to lose weight or your diet has become very limited, talk to a registered dietitian. Smoking. Smoking increases your risk of developing Crohn's disease, and once you have it, smoking can make it worse. People with Crohn's disease who smoke are more likely to have relapses and need medications and repeat surgeries. Quitting smoking can improve the overall health of your digestive tract, as well as provide many other health benefits. ​ Stress. Although stress doesn't cause Crohn's disease, it can make your signs and symptoms worse and may trigger flare-ups. Although it's not always possible to avoid stress, you can learn ways to help manage it, such as: ​ Exercise. Even mild exercise can help reduce stress, relieve depression and normalize bowel function. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you. Biofeedback. This stress-reduction technique may help you decrease muscle tension and slow your heart rate with the help of a feedback machine. The goal is to help you enter a relaxed state so that you can cope more easily with stress. Regular relaxation and breathing exercises. One way to cope with stress is to regularly relax and use techniques such as deep, slow breathing to calm down. You can take classes in yoga and meditation or use books, CDs or DVDs at home. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Alternative Medicine ​ Many people with Crohn's disease have used some form of complementary and alternative medicine to treat their condition. However, there are few well-designed studies of the safety and effectiveness of these treatments. Source: Mayo Clinic ​ ​ Coping and Support ​ Crohn's disease doesn't just affect you physically — it takes an emotional toll as well. If signs and symptoms are severe, your life may revolve around a constant need to run to the toilet. Even if your symptoms are mild, gas and abdominal pain can make it difficult to be out in public. All of these factors can alter your life and may lead to depression. Here are some things you can do: ​ Be informed. One of the best ways to be more in control is to find out as much as possible about Crohn's disease. Look for information from the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Join a support group. Although support groups aren't for everyone, they can provide valuable information about your condition as well as emotional support. Group members frequently know about the latest medical treatments or integrative therapies. You may also find it reassuring to be among others with Crohn's disease. Talk to a therapist. Some people find it helpful to consult a mental health professional who's familiar with inflammatory bowel disease and the emotional difficulties it can cause. ​ Although living with Crohn's disease can be discouraging, research is ongoing and the outlook is improving. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Possible Links Between Celiac , Crohn's , and IBD ​ Some early studies found that people with celiac disease were at much higher risk—potentially as high as a 10-fold increase in risk—of also being diagnosed with either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. However, more recent research has indicated that those with IBD have rates of celiac disease that are similar to those in the general population. ​ Still, there does appear to be some association between the two conditions, and genetics may explain part of that association. Recent genetic research has found that celiac disease and Crohn's disease share four genes that appear to raise risk for both conditions.6 In addition, researchers have identified genes that appear to raise risk both for celiac and for ulcerative colitis. ​ Both IBD and celiac disease are considered autoimmune diseases , which means they involve a mistaken attack by your immune system on a part of your body. Both conditions also appear to involve problematic changes in your intestinal microbiome (the bacteria that live in your large intestine), that may cause or support inflammation. ​ Source: Very Well Health ​ ​ IBD, Crohn's and Gluten Sensitivity May Be More Commonly Related ​ Non-celiac gluten sensitivity may be more likely than celiac disease in people with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, several studies show. ​ For example, a group of doctors in Italy and the United Kingdom surveyed their inflammatory bowel disease patients and found that 28% of them believed they had gluten sensitivity , meaning their symptoms seemed to worsen when they ate gluten-containing foods.7 Only 6% of these people were following the gluten-free diet at the time of the survey, though. The researchers also found that so-called "self-reported non-celiac gluten sensitivity" was associated with more severe Crohn's disease, and they called for additional studies to determine whether the gluten-free diet would help in these cases. ​ In a 2014 report, clinicians in Japan (where celiac disease is quite rare) screened 172 people who had inflammatory bowel disease for antibodies to gluten via blood tests and compared those people to 190 control subjects.8 They found that 13% of those with inflammatory bowel disease also tested positive for anti-gluten antibodies. However, only three of those people carried one of the two main celiac disease genes , and none of them had damage to their small intestines, so none of them actually had celiac disease. ​ Nonetheless, eight of those with inflammatory bowel disease who also tested positive for antibodies to gluten started the gluten-free diet (another eight people from the same group followed a gluten-containing diet, and served as control subjects). After six months on the gluten-free diet, those eight people had fewer symptoms—especially diarrhea—than the control subjects, the study reported. No one in either group developed celiac disease. ​ Source: Very Well Health ​ ​ So Can the Gluten-Free Diet Help in IBD and Crohn's? ​ Maybe it can, even if you don't have celiac disease. In several cases (including in the studies above), doctors have noted that the gluten-free diet improved or resolved inflammatory bowel disease symptoms, even in people who definitely didn't have celiac disease. People with Crohn's disease were especially likely to benefit. ​ For example, in a case study published in 2013, Dr. David Perlmutter (of Grain Brain fame) reported on a patient who had been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, and who hadn't gotten any better with normal treatments for Crohn's.9 Based on blood tests that showed his body was producing antibodies to the gluten protein and to other components of wheat, barley, and rye, the man was diagnosed with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and started the gluten-free diet. ​ This "led after six weeks to a complete cessation of diarrhea," the clinicians wrote. "Upon continuation of the gluten-free diet, not only did stool consistency become normal, but the patient also started gaining weight. On follow-up one year later the patient was back to a normal state and had regained more than 80% of his lost weight." His Crohn's disease had gone into remission on the gluten-free diet. ​ Researchers from the University of North Carolina found similar (if somewhat less dramatic) benefits when they queried 1,647 people with inflammatory bowel disease about whether they had tried the gluten-free diet.2 A total of 19% said they had tried it previously, and 8% said they were still using the diet. Overall, nearly two-thirds of those who had tried to eat gluten-free said the diet improved their digestive symptoms, and 28% reported fewer or less severe IBD flares. Plus, those who were following the diet at the time of the survey said it helped their fatigue significantly. ​ The researchers said it was possible that non-gluten compounds present in gluten grains (as opposed to the gluten protein itself) might cause intestinal inflammation in people with IBD, and eating gluten-free might help alleviate this inflammation (and the symptoms associated with it). They said their study "strongly suggests a potential role of this diet" in some IBD patients, but that more research is needed to determine who can benefit most. ​ So yes, it's possible that the gluten-free diet may help to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, even in people who don't have celiac disease. If you're wondering whether you might benefit, talk to your doctor about trying the diet. ​ Source: Very Well Health ​ HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Lupus

The information contained in this section has been procured from the Celiac Disease Foundation and BeyondCeliac.org. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . Long-Term Health Effects ​ People with celiac disease have a 2x greater risk of developing coronary artery disease, and a 4x greater risk of developing small bowel cancers. ​ The treatment burden of celiac disease is comparable to end-stage renal disease, and the partner burden is comparable to caring for a patient with cancer. 1 2 ​ Untreated celiac disease can lead to the development of other autoimmune disorders like Type I diabetes and multiple sclerosis (MS), and many other conditions, including dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy skin rash), anemia, osteoporosis, infertility and miscarriage, neurological conditions like epilepsy and migraines, short stature, heart disease and intestinal cancers. ​ Source: Celiac.org Cooking blog Undiagnosed or Untreated Celiac Disease Can Lead to Long-Term Health Conditions ​ Iron deficiency anemia Early onset osteoporosis or osteopenia Infertility and miscarriage Lactose intolerance Vitamin and mineral deficiencies Central and peripheral nervous system disorders Pancreatic insufficiency Intestinal lymphomas and other GI cancers (malignancies) Gall bladder malfunction Neurological manifestations, including ataxia, epileptic seizures, dementia, migraine, neuropathy, myopathy and multifocal leucoencephalopathy ​ Other Autoimmune Disorders ​ In a 1999 study, Ventura, et al. found that for people with celiac disease, the later the age of diagnosis, the greater the chance of developing another autoimmune disorder. ​ Autoimmune and Other Conditions Associated with Celiac Disease ​ AUTOIMMUNE CONDITION PREVALENCE IN CD POPULATION Anemia 12-69% Autoimmune Hepatitis 2% Autoimmune Thyroid Disease 26% Chronic fatigue syndrome 2% Dermatitis Herpetiformis 25% Down syndrome 12% Gluten ataxia 10-12% Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyapathy 5.7% Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis 1.5-6.6% Liver Disease 10% Lymphocytic Colitis 15-27% Microscopic Colitis 4% Peripheral Neuropathy 10-12% Primary Bilary Cirrhosis 3% Sjögren’s Syndrome 3% Type 1 Diabetes 8-10% Unexplained infertility 12% ​ Blood. 2007 Jan 15; 109(2): 412–421, Biomed Res Int. 2013; 2013: 127589, Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2010;4(6):767-780, PMC 2009; 55:349–365, Gut 49.4 (2001): 502-505, Ravelli, Lancet; 2007, 369(9563):767-78, Bai, et al. “World Gastroenterology Organization Practice Guidelines:.” World Gastroenterology Organization. ​ Sources: Celiac Disease Foundation BeyondCeliac.org HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Testing

Recipes ​ Welcome to the ever-growing recipe index! Here you will find all kinds of recipes from all over the world and for all occasions! All delicious... and all gluten free! ​ Feel free to browse by category, or click on the "All Posts" tab on this section or by using the "Search" feature. ​ Enjoy! Cooking Blog Joe S. All Posts Breakfast Breads & Baked Goods Christmas Cocktails & Libations Dairy Free Desserts Dips & Sauces Easy Recipes Easter Family Meals Grill & BBQ Holidays Kids Friendly Less than 30 minutes Low Carbs Main Course Meats Party Favorites Pasta Poultry Salads & Vegetables Seafood Side Dishes Snacks Soups, Stews & Chowders Soy Free Thanksgiving HOME All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Vegan/Vegetarian Types

International Organizations ​ Discover organizations from all over the world dedicated to promote celiac disease awareness and support to all those struggling with it. ​ Need information about organizations in your area? If it is not listed below just let me know what is your country of residence and I'll try to find for you the services in your country. ​ Joe S. Cooking blog International Celiac/Coeliac Organizations Per Country National Celiac Association Celiac.com Celiac Disease Foundation Coeliac Australia Beyond Celiac USA Celiac Local Support Groups & Chapters Deutsche Zöliakie Gesellschaft Associazione Italiana Celiacha Coeliac UK NHS Inform Canadian Celiac Association Mayo Clinic HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Association of European Coeliac Societies

Businesses & Products Discover businesses, corporations, and products dedicated to celiacs/coeliacs and people with gluten sensitivities from all over the world! ​ This list will continue to evolve as more resources are added. ​ Please check this section often as it will probably be updated regularly. Contact me if you wish for your business to be added to the list. ​ Joe S. Cooking blog HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Artisan Cheesecakes By Joe Dempsey Bakery (USA) King Arthur Schär Swanson Gluten Free Bob's Red Mill Glutino Pillsbury Gluten Free san-J (Tamari GF Soy Sauce) Canyon Bakehouse Katz Ronzoni Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Olly Makes Bakery (NWA/USA) Vivian Baker (Epicure)

The information contained in this section has been procured from the Celiac Disease Foundation and BeyondCeliac.org. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . Cross-contact or Cross-contamination? ​ Cross-contact and cross-contamination are two terms that are heard frequently within the gluten free community. Sadly, most of the time, we use them wrongly. There is a very important distinction that separates them and makes each term either applicable to the situation or not when addressing celiacs and those with gluten sensitivities and intolerance. ​ Cross-contact is what we mistakingly call "cross-contamination". A very important part of creating a website like this is to inform and educate people about subjects that are associated with the gluten free community at large. Cooking Blog ​ What is cross-contact? ​ Cross-contact is when a gluten-free food or food product is exposed to a gluten-containing ingredient or food – making it unsafe for people with celiac disease to eat. There are many obvious (and not-so-obvious) sources of cross-contact at home and in restaurants and other foodservice locations. There is even a risk of cross-contact before ingredients make it to the kitchen, such as during the growing, processing, and manufacturing processes. ​ While it may seem like a challenge to remember and be proactive about all of the possible sources of cross-contact at first, your improved health will make the effort worth it. Read on to better understand some of these sources and what you can do to prevent cross-contact ​ Source: BeyondCeliac.org ​ What is cross-contamination? ​ Cross-contamination is a term that implies that a food has been exposed to bacteria or a microrganism, which could result in a food-borne illness like salmonella. By definition, it can lead foodservice and other industry professionals to believe that if a food is “contaminated” by gluten, they can simply “kill off” the contaminant. However, gluten is a protein (not a type of bacteria) and proteins cannot be “killed off” using heat or disinfecting agents like most bacteria can be. ​ The term “cross-contact” more accurately reflects that a gluten-containing food cannot come into contact with a gluten-free food. If we speak the same language as chefs and foodservice professionals, we are more likely to have a better experience when dining away from home. ​ Source: BeyondCeliac.org ​ What can I do to avoid Cross-contact ? ​ When preparing gluten-free foods, it is important to avoid cross contact. Cross-contact occur when foods or ingredients come into contact with gluten, generally through shared utensils or a shared cooking/storage environment. In order for food to be safe for someone with celiac disease, it must not come into contact with food containing gluten. ​ ​ Places where Cross-contact can occur ​ Toasters used for both gluten-free and regular bread Colanders Cutting boards Flour sifters Deep fried foods cooked in oil shared with breaded products Shared containers including improperly washed containers Condiments such as butter, peanut butter, jam, mustard, and mayonnaise may become contaminated when utensils used on gluten-containing food are double-dipped Wheat flour can stay airborne for many hours in a bakery (or at home) and contaminate exposed preparation surfaces and utensils or uncovered gluten-free products Oats – cross-contact can occur in the field when oats are grown side-by-side with wheat, select only oats specifically labeled gluten-free Pizza – pizzerias that offer gluten-free crusts sometimes do not control for cross-contact with their wheat-based doughs French fries Non-certified baked goods e.g., “gluten-free” goods from otherwise gluten-containing bakeries Bulk bins at grocery stores or co-ops Easily contaminated foods ​ Oats – look for oats that are specifically labeled gluten-free Pizza – pizzerias that offer gluten-free crusts sometimes do not control for cross-contact with their wheat-based doughs French fries Non-certified baked goods – e.g., “gluten-free” goods from otherwise gluten-containing bakeries ​ ​ Sources: Celiac Disease Foundation Cooking blog HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disease Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe What to do when "Glutened"

Distilled Beverages And Vinegars ​ Most distilled alcoholic beverages and vinegars are gluten-free. These distilled products do not contain any harmful gluten peptides even if they are made from gluten-containing grains. Research indicates that the gluten peptide is too large to carry over in the distillation process, leaving the resulting liquid gluten-free. However, some types of alcoholic beverages do contain an unsafe amount of gluten for people with celiac disease, and include those with added color or flavoring such as dessert wines, and those made from barley malt, such as bottled wine coolers. For these, consumers should check the label, and if in doubt, contact the company. Beers, ales, lagers, malt beverages and malt vinegars that are made from gluten-containing grains are not distilled and therefore are not gluten-free. There are several brands of gluten-free beers available in the United States and abroad. ​ Source: Celiac Disease Foundation Cooking blog HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes Cosmetics, Medications & Toys About Joe Contact Joe

The information contained in this section has been procured from the Mayo Clinic. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . What Causes Celiac Disease? Cooking Blog Genes combined with eating foods with gluten and other factors can contribute to celiac disease, but the precise cause isn't known. Infant-feeding practices, gastrointestinal infections and gut bacteria might contribute, as well. Sometimes celiac disease becomes active after surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, viral infection or severe emotional stress. ​ When the body's immune system overreacts to gluten in food, the reaction damages the tiny, hairlike projections (villi) that line the small intestine. Villi absorb vitamins, minerals and other nutrients from the food you eat. If your villi are damaged, you can't get enough nutrients, no matter how much you eat. Coo Source: Mayo Clinic king Blog Risk factors ​ Celiac disease tends to be more common in people who have: ​ A family member with celiac disease or Dermatitis Herpetiformis Type 1 diabetes Down syndrome or Turner syndrome Autoimmune thyroid disease Microscopic colitis (lymphocytic or collagenous colitis) Addison's disease ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Complications ​ Untreated, celiac disease can cause: ​ Malnutrition. This occurs if your small intestine can't absorb enough nutrients. Malnutrition can lead to anemia and weight loss. In children, malnutrition can cause slow growth and short stature. Bone weakening. Malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D can lead to a softening of the bone (osteomalacia or rickets) in children and a loss of bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis) in adults. Infertility and miscarriage. Malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D can contribute to reproductive issues. Lactose intolerance. Damage to your small intestine might cause you abdominal pain and diarrhea after eating or drinking dairy products that contain lactose. Once your intestine has healed, you might be able to tolerate dairy products again. Cancer. People with celiac disease who don't maintain a gluten-free diet have a greater risk of developing several forms of cancer, including intestinal lymphoma and small bowel cancer. Nervous system problems. Some people with celiac disease can develop problems such as seizures or a disease of the nerves to the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy). ​ Source: Mayo Clinic HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Other Types of Celiac Diseases

The information contained in this section has been procured from John Hopkins Medicine , the Mayo Clinic and NewLifeOutlookFibromyalgia. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . What is Fibromyalgia? ​ Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain in muscles and soft tissues all over the body. It is an ongoing (chronic) condition. It can affect your neck, shoulders, back, chest, hips, buttocks, arms, and legs. The pain may be worse in the morning and evening. Sometimes, the pain may last all day long. The pain may get worse with activity, cold or damp weather, anxiety and stress. The condition affects about 1 in 50 to 1 in 25 people in the U.S. It is most common in middle-aged women. Cooking Blog Source: John Hopkins Medicine ​ What causes Fibromyalgia? ​ The cause is unknown. Researchers think there may be a link with sleep problems and stress. It may also be linked to immune, endocrine, or biochemical problems. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ ​ What are the symptoms of Fibromyalgia? ​ Each person’s symptoms may vary. But chronic pain is the most common symptom. The pain most often affects the muscles and the points where muscles attach to bones. These are the ligaments and tendons. ​ Pain may start in one part of your body, such as your neck and shoulders. Any part of the body can be affected. . The pain ranges from mild to severe. It may feel like burning, soreness, stiffness, aching, or gnawing pain. You may have sore spots in certain parts of your muscles. It may feel like arthritis, but it’s not a condition that gets worse. And it doesn't damage muscles or bones. ​ Other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include: ​ Medium to severe tiredness (fatigue) Less exercise endurance Sleep problems at night Depressed mood Anxiety Headaches Irritable bowel symptoms, such as belly (abdominal) pain and bloating, diarrhea, and constipation Restless legs Painful menstrual periods Trouble thinking clearly (called "fibro fog") ​ Fibromyalgia symptoms include widespread body pain, fatigue, unrefreshing sleep and mood problems. But all of these symptoms are common to many other conditions. And because fibromyalgia symptoms can occur alone or along with other conditions, it can take time to tease out which symptom is caused by what problem. ​ ​ To make things even more confusing, fibromyalgia symptoms can come and go over time. That's why it can take a long time to go from fibromyalgia symptoms to a fibromyalgia diagnosis. ​ Source: John Hopkins Medicine Source: Mayo Clinic ​ How is Fibromyalgia diagnosed? ​ There are no tests that can confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Instead, diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and possibly ruling out other conditions. ​ Fibromyalgia appears to be linked to changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals. As a result, your doctor will usually rely on your group of symptoms to make a diagnosis. ​ Diagnostic guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology now include widespread pain throughout your body for at least three months. "Widespread" is defined as pain on both sides of your body, as well as above and below your waist. ​ Source: John Hopkins Medicine Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Old guidelines required tender points ​ Fibromyalgia is also often characterized by additional pain when firm pressure is applied to specific areas of your body, called tender points. In the past, at least 11 of these 18 spots had to test positive for tenderness to diagnose fibromyalgia. ​ However, given that fibromyalgia symptoms can come and go, a person might have 11 tender points one day but only eight tender points on another day. And many doctors were uncertain about how much pressure to apply during a tender point exam. ​ While specialists or researchers may still use tender points, they are no longer required for your family doctor to make a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Excluding other possible causes ​ It's important to determine whether your symptoms are caused by some other underlying problem. Common culprits include: ​ Rheumatic diseases. Certain conditions — such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome and lupus — can begin with generalized aches and pain. Mental health problems. Disorders such as depression and anxiety often feature generalized aches and pain. Neurological disorders. In some people, fibromyalgia causes numbness and tingling, symptoms that mimic those of disorders such as multiple sclerosis and myasthenia gravis. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Tests that may be needed ​ Your doctor may want to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Blood tests may include: Complete blood count Erythrocyte sedimentation rate Cyclic citrullinated peptide test Rheumatoid factor Thyroid function tests Anti-nuclear antibody Celiac serology Vitamin D ​ Your doctor may also perform a careful physical exam of your muscles and joints, as well as a neurological exam to look for other causes of your symptoms. If there's a chance that you may be suffering from sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend a sleep study. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ More clues for Fibromyalgia diagnosis ​ People who have fibromyalgia also often wake up tired, even after they've slept continuously for more than eight hours. Brief periods of physical or mental exertion may leave them exhausted. They may also have problems with short-term memory and the ability to concentrate. If you have these problems, your doctor may ask you to rank how severely they affect your day-to-day activities. ​ Fibromyalgia often coexists with other health problems, so your doctor may also ask if you experience: ​ Irritable bowel syndrome Headaches Jaw pain Anxiety or depression Frequent or painful urination ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ How is Fibromyalgia treated? ​ Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. ​ There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but symptoms can be managed. Mild cases may get better with stress reduction or lifestyle changes. More severe cases may need to be treated with a team. This may include your primary healthcare provider, a specialist called a rheumatologist, a physical therapist, and a pain management clinic. Treatment may include: ​ Anti-inflammatory medicines, to ease pain and help you sleep Other pain medicines Medicines approved for treating fibromyalgia (duloxetine, pregabalin, and milnacipran) Medicines to ease depression (antidepressants) Exercise and physical therapy, to stretch muscles and improve cardiovascular fitness Relaxation methods Heat treatments Cold treatments once in a while Massage Talk with your healthcare providers about the risks, benefits, and possible side effects of all medicines. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ Living with Fibromyalgia ​ Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition. But you can manage it by working with your healthcare provider. In addition to medicines, lifestyle changes can help symptoms. These include getting enough sleep and exercise. ​ Source: John Hopkins Medicine ​ Key points about Fibromyalgia ​ Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in muscles and soft tissues all over the body. Researchers think it may be linked to sleep problems, stress, or immune, endocrine, or biochemical problems. Symptoms may also include lack of energy (fatigue), sleep problems, depression, headaches, and other problems. There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed. Treatment can include medicine, exercise, relaxation, heat or cold, and massage. ​ Source: John Hopkins Medicine ​ Possible Fibromyalgia triggers ​ In some cases, fibromyalgia symptoms begin shortly after a person has experienced a mentally or physically traumatic event, such as a car accident. People who have post-traumatic stress disorder appear to be more likely to develop fibromyalgia, so your doctor may ask if you've experienced any traumatic events recently. ​ Because genetic factors appear to be involved in fibromyalgia, your doctor may also want to know if any other members of your immediate family have experienced similar symptoms. ​ All of this information taken together will give your doctor a much better idea of what may be causing your symptoms. And that's crucial to developing an effective treatment plan. ​ Source: Mayo Clinic ​ Fibromyalgia-Gluten Relationship ​ There may be evidence that supports the notion that fibromyalgia and gluten don't mix. ​ A recent study published by BMC Gastroenterology took seven female participants diagnosed with fibromyalgia and placed them on a gluten-free diet for one full year. The researchers found that the women showed a “remarkable improvement” in all outcome measures by the end of the study. Their fibromyalgia and IBS symptoms were reduced significantly. ​ Gluten is the protein constituent of grains like wheat, rye and barley. Some individuals can't tolerate gluten in their system. When gluten comes into contact with the small intestine, it produces an autoimmune-like response called celiac disease. It is a condition that strikes one in about 133 people, most of whom don’t even know they have it. It may have genetic links, so if someone has a close relative with the condition, it can be passed on. ​ There are many physical symptoms that celiac disease or gluten intolerance can produce. The following symptoms are among the most common: ​ Abdominal cramping Dehydration Bloating Abdominal distention Muscle cramping Energy loss Appetite increased; cravings Gas or flatulence Weakness and lethargy Back pain Fatigue Night blindness Constipation Decreased ability to clot blood Sores or cracks in corners of mouth Diarrhea Edema Electrolyte depletion Dry skin Common emotional states associated with gluten intolerance and celiac diseases are: ​ Mood changes Depression Inability to concentrate Irritability Disinterest Brain fog ​ In an article in published by The New England Journal of Medicine, there are 55 conditions that can be caused by consuming gluten. Among them were osteoporosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anemia, lupus, and many other autoimmune diseases. ​ Gluten may be responsible for neurological and psychiatric types of illnesses like depression, dementia and neuropathy. If gluten brings out all of these types of conditions, it isn’t too hard to imagine that it can exacerbate fibromyalgia. ​ Celiac disease and gluten intolerance creates inflammation throughout the body. It affects the brain, heart, joints, digestive tract and other organ systems. If gluten is the cause of the different conditions in an individual, the elimination of this protein may be the key to resolving many health issues. ​ Source: NewLifeOutlookFibromyalgia ​ ​ HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Crohn's Disease

The information contained in this section has been procured from John Hopkins Medicine and the Mayo Clinic. It is all for educational purposes and not intended to be taken as medical advice . Dermatitis Herpetiformis ​ Gluten intolerance can cause this itchy, blistering skin disease. The rash usually occurs on the elbows, knees, torso, scalp and buttocks. This condition is often associated with changes to the lining of the small intestine identical to those of celiac disease, but the skin condition might not cause digestive symptoms. ​ Doctors treat dermatitis herpetiformis with a gluten-free diet or medication, or both, to control the rash. cooking blog ​ Source: Mayo Clinic What causes Dermatitis Herpetiformis? ​ Despite its name, the herpes virus does not cause DH. ​ DH is caused by a sensitivity or intolerance to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and grains. When you have DH and eat food with gluten, the gluten combines with an antibody from the intestines. As the gluten and antibody circulate in the blood, they clog small blood vessels in the skin. This is what causes the rash. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ Who is at risk for Dermatitis Herpetiformis? ​ DH is found most often in people of northern European heritage. The following diseases increase your risk of DH: ​ Autoimmune thyroid disease Celiac disease Type 1 diabetes Sjögren syndrome Lupus S ource : John Hopkins Medicine ​ What are the symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis? ​ The following are the most common symptoms of DH. However, each person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: ​ Clusters of itchy, small blisters and bumps, mostly on the elbows, lower back, buttocks, knees, and back of the head Severe itching and burning Erosions and scratches are often seen on the skin ​ The gut may also have the same allergy to gluten. This is known as celiac disease. You can have both DH and celiac. Some cases of celiac become cancerous. Because of this, if you have celiac disease, it is important to see a healthcare provider who specializes in the stomach and intestines (a gastroenterologist). ​ The symptoms of DH may look like other skin conditions. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ How is Dermatitis Herpetiformis diagnosed? ​ In addition to a medical history and physical exam, DH is usually confirmed with a skin biopsy and a specialized type of immunofluorescent stain that helps to detect the IgA antibodies. You may also have a blood tests to find certain antibodies. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ How is Hermatitis Herpetiformis treated? ​ DH may be well-controlled with treatment. Specific treatment will be determined by your healthcare provider based on: ​ Your age, overall health, and medical history Extent of the condition Your tolerance for specific medicines, procedures, and therapies Expectation for the course of the condition Your opinion or preference ​ The symptoms of DH may go away if you cut all gluten from your diet. Healing may take several weeks to months. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe a medicine called dapsone. This medicine suppresses the skin response and may improve symptoms. However, the medicine has some side effects, including anemia. If dapsone is prescribed for you, your healthcare provider will carefully monitor your blood count. Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ Can Dermatitis Herpetiformis be prevented? ​ There is no known way to prevent this disease. You may be able to prevent complications by avoiding foods that contain gluten. Although difficult, sticking to a gluten-free diet can reduce the amount of medicines needed to manage the disease. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ What are the complications of Dermatitis Herpetiformis? ​ People with DH often have celiac disease, which may develop into intestinal cancer. Thyroid disease may also develop. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ Living with Dermatitis Herpetiformis ​ I t is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations about a gluten-free diet and medicines. Iodine and some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) can trigger the condition. So, you may be told to avoid iodized salt and certain NSAIDs. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine ​ ​ Key points about Dermatitis Herpetiformis ​ Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is an intensely itchy skin disease. It causes clusters of small blisters and small bumps. DH is caused by a sensitivity to gluten. The symptoms of DH may clear when all gluten is cut from the diet. ​ Source : John Hopkins Medicine HOME Recipes All About Gluten Autoimmune Disorders Support Groups Cheesecakes About Joe Contact Joe Hashimoto's Disease