Where Do I Go From Here...

[mama2]

where do i go from here... I have suffered celiac (gastro and others) symptoms from as long as i can remeber ... in the last few years since I have had kids have been the worst (many unexplaned prgo problems,too). A year and half ago I went to see a GI here in ohio and was basically blown off. He took only 2 biops and that came back negitive. However I had "unexplained" damage to my intestants. I have never had blood test done. but have been to my family doctor for skin rashes and finally had a bilistery itchy rash break out about 2mths ago .... went to the doc about it... gave me stuff for the itching and sent me on my way. Well that was the day i have had enough suffering!!!!! Have been Gluten-free since! I feel great, everything from bones aching, to gastro, and skin problems GONE!!!! My husband says I have a pep to my step now. So my question is where do I go from here? Do I go see someone to get a official diognosis? and WHO? Am I allowed to join a local support group?

Thanks

Becky

[CarlaB]

If you feel better gluten-free, you don't need a doctor's permission to eat that way! And, yes, you can join a local support group ... many of us had negative tests and positive dietary response. Welcome.

[mama2]

If you feel better gluten-free, you don't need a doctor's permission to eat that way! And, yes, you can join a local support group ... many of us had negative tests and positive dietary response. Welcome.

Thanks for your help!

[Guest j_mommy]

If you did choose to go for an "offical" dx you would need to go back on gluten! For many the positive dietary response is enough!!!!

Good for you that you are feeling better and good luck! Welcome

[mama2]

Thanks. I am taking my daughter (who has lots of symtoms) to a GI at children's this week.

[Katydid]

I think that's absolutely wonderful that you feel so much better now --in spite of the doctors. I have a dear friend who had a similar experience until she too decided she didn't need the doctors permission to go on the diet. (it was a GI doc and he refused her the blood tests if you can believe that)

Today that former weak, frail shell of a human being is vibrant, healthy beautiful woman. (no thanks to her doctor) She would say "Forget the tests and do what makes you feel good" and I would agree.

Enjoy you new good health!

[holiday16]

Well, I had the blood test done 4 years ago and it came back negative. I did Enterolab last year and that came back positive. The dietary response has been amazing and I'm so much better now after having been sick for years. The closest I have to a diagnosis is the internal med. Dr. I saw said the "proof is in the pudding" and said I have gluten sensitivity. He offered to do a scope, but I would have to go back on gluten for that and I just can't. Both my daughters also react to gluten and I was quite surprised at how quickly they improved off of it and how much they react if they have any. I was going to try to get a good diagnosis for my oldest dd since I was afraid she wouldn't comply with the diet without it, but it's really just not worth the hassle. She was content with the Enterolab results and has been totally following the diet since she feels so much better.

Just curious where you get your flour and things since you live fairly close to where I am. I found a place in Fairborn that I like for getting rice flour etc.

[mama2]

Well, I had the blood test done 4 years ago and it came back negative. I did Enterolab last year and that came back positive. The dietary response has been amazing and I'm so much better now after having been sick for years. The closest I have to a diagnosis is the internal med. Dr. I saw said the "proof is in the pudding" and said I have gluten sensitivity. He offered to do a scope, but I would have to go back on gluten for that and I just can't. Both my daughters also react to gluten and I was quite surprised at how quickly they improved off of it and how much they react if they have any. I was going to try to get a good diagnosis for my oldest dd since I was afraid she wouldn't comply with the diet without it, but it's really just not worth the hassle. She was content with the Enterolab results and has been totally following the diet since she feels so much better.

Just curious where you get your flour and things since you live fairly close to where I am. I found a place in Fairborn that I like for getting rice flour etc.

I am finding shopping to be exausting right now... but here in dayton I like Traders Joes and Dorothy Lane market... they both have Gluten-free shopping guides on their websites. Where do you go in Fairborn?

My daughter is just going to be 3 and has lots of gastro problems and since I have had such a positive results from going gluten-free I am taking her to a GI doctor to see what they say. Fourtunatley she is not a picky eater and I may just go ahread and put her on the diet to see if it helps her.

[CarlaB]

I didn't see the city you live in ... I grew up in Centerville! I now live in Warren County ... Jungle Jim's is a GREAT place to shop for gluten-free. They have a large section devoted to it ... of course, in the context of the size of the store, it seems small.

Carraba's and PF Changs, by the Dayton Mall, both have gluten-free menus.

[mama2]

I didn't see the city you live in ... I grew up in Centerville! I now live in Warren County ... Jungle Jim's is a GREAT place to shop for gluten-free. They have a large section devoted to it ... of course, in the context of the size of the store, it seems small.

Carraba's and PF Changs, by the Dayton Mall, both have gluten-free menus.

Wow, thanks for the tips ... I'll have tocheck them out!