Should I See A Specialist?

[francelajoie]

I need advice,

I was diagnosed gluten intolorent and possible Celiac by my family doctor. I just found out that there is a Celiac center less than an hour from here. Should I go?

I've been gluten free since last July and I feel great. Would a diagnosis change anything?

[jerseyangel]

I need advice,

I was diagnosed gluten intolorent and possible Celiac by my family doctor. I just found out that there is a Celiac center less than an hour from here. Should I go?

I've been gluten free since last July and I feel great. Would a diagnosis change anything?

Nope--if you feel great on the diet, there's nothing that a specialist can do that being gluten-free can't. The diet is the only treatment for Celiac. Glad to hear you're doing so well

[Ursa Major]

I agree, it would just be a waste of time and money. Obviously you know what you're doing, you feel great, no need to bother.

[mmaccartney]

I've been exploring this myself. I am pursuing a formal diagnosis from an MD. Why? I believe that Celiac disease (and my associated arthritis) qualify as a disability under the americans with disabilities act. A formal dx would give me protection under that act.

Now, if you are looking for more answers for your own peace of mind, I'll give you the advice my rhuemotologist (whos mother is a celiac) gave me:

"Why do you want further testing, or further diagnosis? You already know what is wrong with you, you changed your diet and your getting better...what more do you need to know?? Stay of gluten, and get healthy!"

I still wanted more answers, so I ended up at Enterolab. The results there confirmed everything, and surprised me with the fact that I have a celiac gene (DQ2) and a gluten intolerance gene(DQ3). The casien intolerance surprised me as well....it wasn't the cheapest testing at $390 BUT my insurance is paying for it!!!!!!!!

the gene testing results were important to me as I have two sons. Having two genes tells me that there is a 100% chance that they recieved at least one of the genes from me. Thus they are presdisposed to celiac, or gluten intolerance, or both (like me). This has spurred me to take action to have them further tested as they may be reacting with no visible symptoms!!!!

[francelajoie]

Thanks guys...I think I will just continue the diet. At least I know the center is there if I ever need to go.

[Eugene]

I still wanted more answers, so I ended up at Enterolab. The results there confirmed everything, and surprised me with the fact that I have a celiac gene (DQ2) and a gluten intolerance gene(DQ3). The casien intolerance surprised me as well....it wasn't the cheapest testing at $390 BUT my insurance is paying for it!!!!!!!!

Michael,

What is Enterolab anf how does one get tested?

TIA, Eugene

[Jnkmnky]

A dx isn't going to make your life better. There are things you will be UNable to do if you have a dx of Celiac disease. Stuff like Joining the military, becoming a priest, getting good health insurance. You can face obstacles with a dx of celiac disease. Best to keep it quiet, imo. There really is no benefit that I've encountered with this dx... sometimes you hear that you can itemize the food costs on your taxes, but that's such a load of bunk. Who's done it? There's nothing to gain with this dx OTHER than your HEALTH!