2 replies to this topic

[Northern gal]

Hi there,

Hoping to get some thoughts from others out there who are familiar with the range of symptoms and issues associated with celiac disease (or gluten intolerance).

My story is sad and complicated, but basically starts with the fact that I'm 26 and have had 5 early miscarriages in the past year. Testing was inconclusive, until finally my RE found that I have an autoimmune thyroid condition (anti-thyroid antibodies/hashimotos). He started me on a low dose of synthroid to boost me up (even though my current TSH is considered "normal".

Anyways, in reading more about autoimmune thyroid conditions, I found out that they are highly related to celiac disease and that they can also respond to a gluten-free diet. So I decided to go gluten-free because, well, at this point I'm willing to try anything to be able to have a healthy baby.

After doing all this reading, I've done done more reflecting and an convinced I have done kind of gluten intolerance issue. I did blood testing a couple of days after first deciding to try gluten-free, and the clinic said that should still be Ok for identifying the antibodies/tissue transglutaminase). I'll find out in January.


Anyway, my symptoms include:

- recurrent pregnancy loss (infertility)
- thyroid autoimmunity
- skin rashes (Not DH), possibly eczema or chronic hives
- dairy intolerance developed in the last few years (this has *completely* improved since going gluten-free 2 weeks ago)
- stomach gurgling, gas and bloating (also stopped on going gluten-free)
- chronically loose, smelly stool (sorry TMI! But, my BMs have been completely normal on going gluten-free!)
- grandmother recently told me my uncle "was celiac as a child but grew out if it" (right. )


It seems fairly compelling to ne, especially given my digestive improvements. I'm even thinking that if the blood test comes back negative, I might just stay gluten-free to see how it goes (with pregnancy, thyroid condition, digestive health, etc).

What do you think? Thoughts, insights, or advice greatly appreciated!

Thanks

[mushroom]

Hi Northern gal, and welcome.

The short answer to your question, is Yes and Yes, both to either celiac or non-celiac gluten intolerance, and to it being the cause of frequent miscarriages; it is highly likely. If you use forum's search engine and enter celiac and miscarriage in the box you will find many discussions on the board on this subject. We have multiple posters who have had trouble conceiving or trouble carrying to term who have had successful pregnancies once off gluten.

Read up and come back and ask specific questions if you still have them. Best wishes for a conclusive result when your tests come back. Even if they come back negative, you should give the diet a trial for three to six months because of the newly recognized condition (by doctors and researchers) of non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Which means you will test negative for celiac but still not tolerate gluten

[squirmingitch]

I think it's highly probable. It sounds like you've done your homework when you state the sarcastic "right" re: your uncle growing out of celiac disease.
NOW, I just hope they did all the correct blood work on you. So many do not know what the full celiac panel consists of.
And I applaud your desire to give gluten-free a good solid try even if the blood comes back normal. The only reason for you to really have an official dx is when you have children; if you have an official dx then if they show signs of celiac it would be easier to convince the powers that be to test your kids.

And welcome to the board!