Celiac Newbie Needing Help

[Blue Roan]

Hi, everyone! It's nice to meet you. 

I was just diagnosed with celiac disease and have no clue where to start. I've never had any dietary issues until about 2 months ago when I experienced the absolute worst symptoms I've ever had in my life. I would not wish them on my worst enemy! 

A couple of days before Christmas, I noticed frequent heartburn/indigestion. A couple of days later, I had terrible abdominal cramping, nausea, and my appetite was completely gone. I visited urgent care, and after evaluation, I was diagnosed with gastroenteritis. I ended up in the ER a week later with worsening stomach pain, but after my vitals came back normal, I was told that I had a "long case of gastro virus" and was sent home with sucralfate, famotidine, and omeprazole. I had a follow-up with my PCP, who referred me to a gastro doctor. About 3 weeks post-onset, I had my GI appointment. The doctor said that since I am healthy and on the younger end, my symptoms would likely resolve on their own after a month of rest and a FODMAP diet. For the next 4 weeks, I had many rough episodes. I noticed alternating diarrhea and constipation, a constricted feeling in my esophagus/intestines when I ate certain things, and sharp pains in my stomach. I seriously thought I had ulcers or something more severe! The heartburn became so bad that I could not sleep at night. My GI doctor performed an emergency endoscopy a couple of days ago and discovered damage in my upper intestine consistent with gluten intolerance, which led him to the diagnosis. 

I have been gluten-free for a couple of days and thankfully am starting to feel better. This diagnosis is a shock because I have no family history of it and I have been able to tolerate any food up until this point. It is crazy how many foods contain gluten and I am feeling overwhelmed. What are some things that helped you adjust to the gluten-free lifestyle? Any tips? 

[Scott Adams]

Welcome to the forum!

This article has some detailed information on how to be 100% gluten-free, so it may be helpful (be sure to also read the comments section.):

 

 

[Blue Roan]

Thank you! 

[Scott Adams]

Many people with celiac disease, especially those who are in the 0-2 year range of their recovery, have additional food intolerance issues which could be temporary. To figure this out you may need to keep a food diary and do an elimination diet over a few months.

Some common food intolerance issues are dairy/casein, eggs, corn, oats, and soy. The good news is that after your gut heals (for most people who are 100% gluten-free this will take several months to two years) you may be able to slowly add some these items back into your diet after the damaged villi heal.

This article may be helpful: