Diagnosis Question?

[zip2play]

I had hiatal hurnia surgery and gall bladder removal in 2003. Since then I have had horrible gas/bloating, stools have become odd at best. I was diagnosed with IBS and have tried to eliminate diary and such that make IBS worse. I am also on Zelnorm. At the same time I have been tested for Thyroid issues because I have horribly fatigued all the time. I recently read an article on Celiac and I believe that is a more accurate description of what I have.

My question is, what tests should I have the DR run? Start with the blood tests? I have read that negative blood results are not necessarily accurate. So do I also request a biopsy?

I truly want to end my issues. Some days are horrible. My stomach hurts so bad I don't eat. Other days aren't too bad. But I am a MOM of 2 and I want to be able to function better. The fatigue is probably the worst of my symptoms. I seem tired all the time. I even sleep 7 to 8 hours a night. I exercise regularly so IMHO I shouldn't be this fatigued. I was labeled IBS in my opinion, b/c it was an easy diagnosis. But I want definate answers.

Anything you can tell me would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Monica

[zip2play]

I am having problems finding this post???

[jenvan]

You definitely have some celiac symptoms. The easiet route is to start with the blood test. Go here to see info on getting tested, it is an easy blood test most any doctor can have run. Don't let your doctor discourage you either--its your body! Open Original Shared Link Sorry for all your pain and discomfort! Keep up posted on your search!

[zip2play]

I have done a little food testing of my own. I typically eat eggs for breakfast. Today I had 1/2 of a bagel with it. NOW my stomach is killing me!

[jenvan]

Just make sure if you get tested you are consuming gluten... meaning, don't go gluten-free for several weeks and then get tested--the results wouldn't be accurate.

[zip2play]

Thanks! I had read you definitely need to be eating it at the time!

[tarnalberry]

My question is, what tests should I have the DR run?  Start with the blood tests?  I have read that negative blood results are not necessarily accurate.  So do I also request a biopsy? 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Getting tested is a good idea. Starting with the blood tests is the right way to go; the standard panel is anti-gliandin IgA, anti-gliandin IgG, total IgA, tTg (tissue transglutimerase), and EMA (endomyosial antibodies). Your doctor can look them up if need be. ;-) Do not go off gluten before the testing!

[zip2play]

Something else is, I am COLD all the time! I mean, COLD!?!?!

[jenvan]

hmmm, are you anemia? that is a common symptom of anemia. and anemia is frequent with celiac.

[Rachel--24]

I get cold after I've been glutened. I'm not sure if its the gluten reaction itself or if its because gluten accidents affect absorption of my thyroid medication. Feeling cold is a sign of low thyroid.

[zip2play]

My thyroid is fine. We had that tested earlier this year.

I spoke with my family DR. She doesn't feel qualified to test/treat this. She has referred me to a Gastro Specialist. Only problem is his first appointment is November 28th! Hopefully he can test me immediately!

Thanks for your help!

As for anemia, I have no idea if I have that?!?