Bowel issues

[marbeg]

Hi all, I was diagnosed with coeliac in August 2020. This was via a blood test, as it was during COVID, so I’ve never had a biopsy or colonoscopy or anything like that. 
 

I have been following a gluten-free diet since and would expect to feel much better, however, I am still experiencing issues with my bowels. Very strict, so I know there’s no cross contamination etc. 

 

It usually seems to be after I have had a bowel movement, my bowels feel on fire, cramping, sore and very uncomfortable. I know it isn’t normal, and isn’t right and I have saw a doctor before, I provided a stool sample and apparently everything was fine- but I know it isn’t. 
 

I am just wondering if anyone else experiences this? What would you advise I do in regards to seeing a doctor, I was thinking of asking for a colonoscopy or biopsy, I just want to know what is going on and why I’m still experiencing this. Any advice is welcome and appreciated.. thank you. 

[Scott Adams]

It sounds like you're doing everything right with your gluten-free diet, yet still experiencing significant discomfort, which must be frustrating. Since your stool sample came back normal but symptoms persist, pushing for further investigation—like a colonoscopy or biopsy—is a reasonable next step. You might also want to discuss the possibility of additional conditions, such as IBS, microscopic colitis, or other inflammatory issues, with your doctor. Tracking your symptoms, diet, and triggers in detail could help identify patterns. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself—if your current doctor isn’t addressing your concerns, seeking a second opinion or a referral to a gastroenterologist could be beneficial. You’re right to seek answers, and I hope you find relief soon.

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.

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