8. Gastrointestinal Issues: The Hidden Turmoil Within
Many people with CVID experience a range of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, and malabsorption are all common, and they signify an ongoing battle taking place in the gut. The symptoms are not only distressing in their own right but can also lead to significant nutrient deficiencies and associated health problems.
The underlying causes of these GI issues in CVID patients are varied. They may be related to infections with pathogens that a healthier immune system would typically fend off, or due to inflammation of the gut lining, which resembles conditions like Crohn’s disease or Celiac disease, but has distinct differences.
Managing GI symptoms in CVID is often a significant part of a patient’s overall treatment plan. It may involve a combination of antibiotics to clear infections, immune-modulating medications to reduce inflammation, and nutritional support, including a tailored diet plan and potentially supplement prescriptions. (8)
