Quick Question

[Kathy'sUnicorns]

I'm waiting for the Secretary at my Allergist to call back ( not until after 2). I need to start getting my allergy shots again. I stopped due to being busy and taking time off from work but my eyes are starting to itch and swell so it is time to go back. Anyhoo.....I was talking to the nurse at the allergist because I want to get tested for shelfish allergy and I explained that the Celiac test came back negative so I wanted to have an allergy test to see if it is an allergy verses and intolerance. My question is do you have to be eating gluten to have the test to see if you are allergic to it or is it just how you react to the stuff they stick in your arm?

Why I am at it I have another question. I've been gluten free for about a month. Can your reaction to gluten be worse then it was before you went gluten free since you haven't had it in your system? I know I shouldn't have but I just wanted a hamburger from McDonalds so I had only had half the bun (I know I know better and have kicked my self in the but several times) this time instead of the pain and bloating I started getting itchy all over and my tongue felt like it was starting to swell (had that happen before and it is not fun! try telling the doctor all your medications you are on while holding your tounge. very funny). It didn't do it enough that I went to the hospital but it was a new reaction to gluten.

[gfgypsyqueen]

Swelling tongue is a new one to me for a gluten reaction. Sounds dangerous. If you are going to the allergist, tell them that story and see what they say. I would get tested for a wheat allergy in addition to the Celiacs that you already have. They are different.

As far as I can remember, you do not need to be eating a food i order to be allergy tested (skin prick or blood test) for it. But if there is a certain food or a certain reaction you are having, discuss it with your allergist.

Yes, Gluten reactions are different and get worse after being gluten-free.

[tarnalberry]

depends, skin tests (either the prick tests or the subdermal ones) don't require you to be exposed to the potential allergen, as they expose you to it. a blood test, on the other hand, does.

a swelling tongue is not, generally, a celiac symptom, but it is a allergy symptom, and one you should take seriously. you may have a wheat allergy, rather than a gluten intolerance.

[Mom23boys]

The swelling tongue is a big allergy sign. A severe sign!!! RUN to that allergist and get an epi.