Calls for greater awareness of Coeliac Disease

Coeliac Disease is an auto-immune disease caused by intolerance to gluten.

One in 100 people have the condition but despite an increase in diagnosis it's believed three quarters of sufferers go undiagnosed.

When someone with Coeliac Disease eats gluten their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of their intestine. It can be treated by cutting gluten out of the diet.

With gluten found in wheat, barley and rye it can be difficult to avoid especially when eating out, as even the smallest amount of gluten can cause severe illness.

Many gluten free products are being developed at a purpose built bakery in Newburn, Newcastle.

Listen to how one sufferer believes a greater awareness would improve life for sufferers and help with diagnosis.

Symptoms of Coeliac Disease range from mild to severe and can include bloating, diarrhoea, nausea, wind, constipation, tiredness, headaches, mouth ulcers, sudden or unexpected weight loss (but not in all cases), hair loss and anaemia.