Celiac Disease
Pediatric Celiac Disease
From first labs to lifelong gluten-free living, careful diagnosis and ongoing support for celiac kids and teens.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine. In children it can show up as belly pain, diarrhea, poor growth, anemia, or no obvious GI symptoms at all.
Dr. Mendez confirms the diagnosis with the right testing, helps families launch a sustainable gluten-free lifestyle, and monitors growth, labs, and bone health for the long haul.
Signs and symptoms
- Chronic diarrhea, constipation, or bloating
- Belly pain and gas
- Poor growth or weight loss
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Mouth ulcers and dental enamel defects
- Fatigue, irritability, brain fog
- Delayed puberty
How we treat it
- Celiac serology and total IgA testing before any diet changes.
- Upper endoscopy with biopsies to confirm diagnosis when indicated.
- Personalized gluten-free education for the whole family.
- Coordination with school, camps, and travel.
- Ongoing monitoring of nutrition, growth, bone density, and antibody trends.
When to call a pediatric GI
- A positive celiac screen from your pediatrician.
- A first-degree relative with celiac disease.
- Type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, or Turner syndrome with GI symptoms.
- Persistent symptoms after starting a gluten-free diet.
Frequently asked
Should we start a gluten-free diet before testing?
No. Starting gluten-free before testing can make celiac disease very hard to diagnose. Keep gluten in the diet until testing is complete.
Will my child outgrow celiac?
Celiac disease is lifelong. The good news is that with a strict gluten-free diet most children feel well and avoid long-term complications.
Ready to talk it through?
Concierge access means we have the time to listen, evaluate carefully, and stay with your family through every step.