Question From A New Celiac

[celiac-in-WV]

My husband was recently (last week) diagnosed with celiac. His only sympton was anemia which he had been taking an iron supplement (Chromagen) for. He never had any other health problems other than some bloating when he drank beer. The doctor did the coloscopy, the endoscopy, the small intestine biopsy, and the bloodwork to confirm the diagnosis. We haven't met with the doctor or the dietician yet but decided that it would be a good idea to start eliminating gluten from his diet. Well, for the past few days he has started taking the Chromagen again and has totally eliminated gluten from his diet (even though it never made him feel bad in the first place). Every time he eats (totally gluten free) he gets severe abdominal pain and cramping. He never had this problem before the diagnosis. Could the biopsy (done about a week ago) have done something to him internally? Does it take this long for the intestines to heal? I mean, he NEVER had any abdominal problems until after the diagnosis. Could the removal of the gluten from his diet and the subsequent healing of his intestine cause pain for him? He is really miserable now. He felt better when he thought he just had anemia.

[2kids4me]

it could be a combination of events - my kids had stomach ache off and on for about a week after biopsy. They also experienced discomfort as we went gluten-free - I figured it was adjustng to the new diet more than anything...kinds like when you travel or eat somewher different - its not the food so much as the change in the type of food you normally eat

Hope he feels better soon

[LKelly8]

I'd call the doctor right away.

That does not sound like the normal post endo stomach-achiness. Maybe he's just taking longer to recover than most. Maybe his subconcious really doesn't want to have to deal with celiac disease !

In any case I'd call the doctor's office and see what they think the problem is.

[plantime]

I didn't have any pain in my gut after my biopsy, but someone else might be more sensitive. If a lot of samples were taken, that would make it hurt more, maybe. It could also be that he is eating different food, and his gut needs time to adjust to it. I do hope he starts feeling better soon!

[BostonCeliac]

My only main symptom was also anemia -- iron pills did nothing for me though -- and after my biopsy I felt fine.. Although, I had a very sore throat for a week!

I've been off the gluten completely for a week now, but have not had any abdominal pain. I agree with the previous poster - he should call the DR. It could also be an adjustment to a differerent diet.

Hope it works out - good luck!

[ehrin]

Did you call to verify that the Chromagen is gluten-free?