A gastroenterologist and therapeutic endoscopist at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Patrick Hyatt is also the director of the Heartburn Center. Dr. Patrick Hyatt holds membership in numerous organizations, including the American Gastroenterological Association, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, and the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Hyatt is knowledgeable of a wide range of gastroenterological problems, including celiac disease.

Celiac disease is a condition that appears when gluten triggers an immune response that causes damage to the small intestine. Patients diagnosed with celiac disease should never eat any foods with gluten, as it is a lifelong, chronic condition and can damage the small intestine.

Finger-shaped projections known as villi are located within the small intestine. The villi absorb sugars, vitamins, and other nutrients. When someone eats gluten, the intestinal lining of villi flattens and becomes damaged, leading to problems with nutrient absorption. When nutrients aren’t absorbed due to this damage, the loss of minerals and vitamins can lead to other health issues, including osteoporosis and anemia.