Do I Need To See A Gi?

[Needleup]

I was just diagnosed with Celiac disease when my Endocrinoligist did some blood test. He suggested that I make an appointment with a Dr. of Gastroenterology. I am set to go on 11/4 I called two days ago and asked if I should remain on Gluten until after testing but they have not called back. I have been eating Gluten free for two weeks and feel better already. How important is it that I go forward with the the Gastro. appt.?

Regards

[cyclinglady]

You should continue to eat gluten until all testing is complete.

The decision for the endoscopy is up to you. Most doctored prefer it. The biopsies can show the amount of damage and check for cancer (rare) and set a benchmark (for later biopsies if needed).

On a personal note, my blood tests were barely positive but my biopsy showed moderate to severe damage (Marsh Stage IIIB). My husband has been gluten free for 13 years. I could not imagine that we both had it. What are the odds? I needed to know as I knew what going gluten-free was going to mean. I had to know for sure!

[sweetpeas327]

I'm thinking another reason to get a biopsy-proven diagnosis (besides those mentioned already) might be for others in your family as it is genetic - siblings, kids, parents... Good luck!

[Needleup]

I finally got a call the Dr. wants me to stay on Gluten. I dread it because I am feeling better. I was feeling very anxious and depressed. I am down to two pills a day and feeling great. I don't want to go back..

[Needleup]

You should continue to eat gluten until all testing is complete.

The decision for the endoscopy is up to you. Most doctored prefer it. The biopsies can show the amount of damage and check for cancer (rare) and set a benchmark (for later biopsies if needed).

On a personal note, my blood tests were barely positive but my biopsy showed moderate to severe damage (Marsh Stage IIIB). My husband has been gluten free for 13 years. I could not imagine that we both had it. What are the odds? I needed to know as I knew what going gluten-free was going to mean. I had to know for sure!

Does the blood test determine that you do have celiac disease for sure?

[ravenwoodglass]

I wish your Endo had thought to tell you that you needed to stay on gluten. You will need to go back on gluten to ensure that your biopsy is not a false negative. Be aware that there can be false negatives on biopsy even without having stopped gluten for a couple of weeks.

The choice to biopsy is yours to make. It sounds like you have a doctor's diagnosis from your Endo. If you should find that the challenge results in severe symptoms do call the GI doctor's office and let them know. Some of us have more severe reactions to gluten after being gluten free for even a short time.

Glad you have been feeling better and hope you recover quickly from the challenge if you choose to do one.