Silent celiac is an asymptomatic form of celiac disease where individuals have intestinal damage without obvious symptoms, often diagnosed through blood tests and biopsies, and managed effectively with a strict gluten-free diet to prevent long-term health complications.
Silent celiac, also known as asymptomatic celiac disease, is a rare form of celiac disease where individuals have the physical manifestations of the disease, such as small bowel inflammation, but do not experience the typical gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Many people with silent celiac go undiagnosed as they may not realize they are experiencing mild symptoms or attribute them to other causes. Diagnosis is often made through blood tests and an upper endoscopy. The treatment for celiac disease, including silent celiac, is a strict gluten-free diet. Ignoring silent celiac can lead to long-term health issues, so it is important to make dietary changes and inform family members to get screened as well.