Final answer:
Celiac disease can develop at any age and is characterized by an autoimmune response to gluten resulting in intestinal damage. Symptoms vary widely but managing the disease requires a strict gluten-free diet. Diagnosis is through serological tests and intestinal biopsy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, you can develop celiac disease later in life. Celiac disease can onset at any age due to a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors, such as exposure to gluten. This autoimmune condition leads to an inflammatory response in the small intestine when gluten is consumed, causing damage to the microvilli responsible for nutrient absorption. This can result in symptoms like diarrhea, anemia, weight loss, and abdominal pain. The only effective treatment for managing celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which helps limit and heal intestinal damage.
The diagnosis of celiac disease typically involves serological tests for specific antibodies, followed by an endoscopic biopsy of the small intestine. Maintaining a gluten-free diet can be challenging, as gluten is found in many common foods. However, it is necessary to avoid the health consequences associated with continued exposure to gluten.