Testing Questions- What To Ask For?

[Eheadings]

I am going to the doctor for a "pre apt" on Wednesday. I was asking for a blood test, but they want me to come in for an appointment before they order the blood work. 

 

I haven't gone to this doctor for a long time. This was my family doctor growing up, but for the last 2 years or so I was going to a clinic that my school district offers for free (i'm a teacher). I switched to my husband's insurance in December, so now I have to go back to a family doctor. 

 

I'm just nervous about the visit. I wish I could order the blood work, get the results, and be done. Ugh. What all do I need to ask for? Any advice? 

[nvsmom]

The full celiac panel is:

tTG IgA and tTG IgG

DGP IgA and DGP IgG

EMA IgA

Total serum IgA

AGA IgA and AGA IgG (older and less reliable tests)

Make sure you are eating gluten until testing is done,

Many celiacs are low in some nutrients such as calcium, iron, ferritin, potassium, zinc, A, D, B12, and copper.

Bone density can be an issue and should be checked.

Thyroiditis as symptoms similar to celiac disease, as well as being associated with celiac disease. Getting checked for hypothyroidism is often helpful.

[NoGlutenCooties]

Welcome to the Forum!

 

Just wanted to add that it doesn't hurt to go armed with some basic information about Celiac and the symptoms.  Many doctors are not particularly knowledgeable about Celiac and are hesitant to believe that a food could cause so many problems.  In my experience, if there isn't a prescription for it many doctors simply don't care to be educated about it.  Celiac is also a tricky disease and can be hard to diagnose for some people.  But be prepared to stand your ground and be your own advocate for your own health.  Maybe you'll luck out and find one of the few doctors who know a bit about Celiac and realize how important it is to be tested.  If you have Celiac or any auto-immune diseases in your family be sure to mention these to your doctor as well - Celiac is genetic and is more prevelent in people who have other auto-immune issues either themselves or in their family.

 

As far as wanting to see you before ordering the blood work, I can actually respect that.  The doctor doesn't know that you know what you're talking about and wouldn't be a very good doctor if he/she simply took your word for it and ordered tests based solely on your say-so. 

 

Good luck!