Introducing Myself

[Canadian Karen]

Can someone please tell me how I can post an intro of myself in a specific forum category?

I find this format confusing....

Thanks!

Karen

[Canadian Karen]

Hi, I'm Karen. I am 41 yrs old and have had celiac disease for more years than I can remember (since my teens at least). I originally was diagnosed with celiac at age 23 and after 1 year on the gluten free diet with no results, the diagnosis was changed to Crohn's. Finally, 1 1/2 years ago, the blood test confirmed indeed it was Celiac.

I have been on the gluten-free diet since the second diagnosis, but still have not seen any improvement. I basically have had diarrhea permanently for over a decade. I also have hypo-thyroid disease, which is another autoimmune disease affiliated with Celiac.

I came across this board while searching for support. I am currently off work for a two week rest as I had another flare up with excruciating pain. Today is the first day that is seems to be subsiding. Have been eating only rice bread toast for weeks now.

This time though, it also came with the worst case of gas and belching I have ever had. It was absolutely constant - my throat, esophagas, ribs, everything was sore. Has anyone else experienced this? Also, there was a pain in my back on both sides flank area....

I am so worried that there has been so much damage gone unchecked for so long that I will never get better.....

It doesn't help that I work full time, have four children (including 3 yr old twin boys), which doesn't leave much rest time.....

Well, that's me in a nutshell. Hope to gain some valuable info from you guys!!

Karen

[tarnalberry]

Welcome to the board. I'm sorry to hear about your troubles.

As for not finding any relief after 18 months on the diet, my first question would be to ask if you are 100% positive that you have eliminated ALL possible sources of cross contamination and gluten exposure (be it packaged products, stamps/envelops/play-dough, cosmetics/soap/shampoo, a not-entirely-gluten-free kitchen, medications, or anything else). My second question would be to ask if you have followed up on whether or not you have any other food intolerances or allergies which could be contributing to your symptoms.

I hope you're feeling better soon!