Blood Tests Enough?

[Supergirl]

I have read other postings like this, but it would be nice to hear what you all have to say. About a month ago, I came back with positive blood tests for Celiac. I guess I wasn't too surprised, since my grandfather has it (my dad hasn't been tested). Is that enough to know that I have it? I am seeing a GI doctor next month. Since the blood tests, I have been spending a lot of time reading and learning about the gluten-free diet, but maybe I shouldn't get so crazy about it yet. Maybe I don't really have it? Thanks for any input.

[chrissy]

my girls were diagnosed by blood tests.

[Supergirl]

I am very new to all of this, and in addition to my question about bloodtests, I was wondering if symptoms have to be constant. The things that are happening to me (joint pain, flatus, occasional D, and C) seem to be better at sometimes and worse at others. Does that fit with anyone? Since nothing has ever been constant, I just thought it was normal--until the joint pain started. But even that is worse some weeks than others. I'd appreciate anyone who can help me figure this out. Thanks!

[BostonCeliac]

Hey Supergirl -- I'm in the same boat as you pretty much -- confirmed blood tests, but appointment with Gastro Doc is not for another month & they want to do an Endoscopy.. it's frustrating because i'm 99.99 % sure i have this (my sister was diagnosed a year ago), and I have to keep eating gluten until after the Endo.

I've been anemic for about 5 or 6 years -- nothing could fix it -- and only recently did I start experiencing stomach issues, feeling nauseous, not being able to concentrate.. etc. that's when I got the blood test (that was about 4 weeks ago). And sure enough, if I go off the gluten for a few days to a week, I feel better already.

But to answer your question -- my symptoms are totally INconsistent. Two weeks ago I was eating whatever I wanted & felt fine then last week I was feeling really crappy.

So -- my guess would be you have it if you have family history & positive bloodwork (according to everything I've read & been told).. But keep us posted!!

[Supergirl]

Thanks, BostonCeliac.

I feel better knowing that I'm not the only one with inconsistencies. I guess I'll just have to wait a month to know more.