The spelling of the word "coeliac" can be confusing as it is not spelled phonetically. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈsiːliək/, which shows that the "-ae-" in the spelling is pronounced as a long "i" sound. This root word, "coeliac," is derived from the Greek word "koilia," which means "abdomen." Hence coeliac disease, which affects the digestive system, is spelled with an "ae" to reflect its origins. It is important to be mindful of the correct spelling when referring to this medical condition.
Coeliac, also spelled celiac, is an adjective used to describe something related to or affected by coeliac disease. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine, triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with coeliac disease ingests gluten, their immune system reacts by attacking the lining of the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage to the villi, which are responsible for nutrient absorption. As a result, individuals with coeliac disease experience various symptoms, including bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
The term coeliac can also be used to refer to a person or an individual diagnosed with coeliac disease. These individuals need to follow a strict gluten-free diet to manage their symptoms and prevent further damage. They may rely on gluten-free products, which have become more widely available in recent years, and need to be cautious about cross-contamination when dining out or cooking at home.
In a broader sense, coeliac can be employed to describe anything specifically designed or suitable for individuals with coeliac disease, such as a coeliac-friendly menu or a coeliac-friendly recipe. The term is essential for promoting understanding and inclusivity, as well as facilitating the identification of products, services, and environments that can accommodate those with coeliac disease.
Celiac.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word coeliac is derived from the Greek word koiliakos, which means of the bowels or abdominal. This term was used in ancient Greece to describe a condition characterized by the severe malabsorption of food due to damage in the lining of the small intestine. It was later translated into Latin as coeliacus before being adapted into modern English as coeliac or celiac.