Is It Celiac?

[Amber25]

Hi! I have been researching Celiac Disease for a few days now and I am a little confused. Are celiac disease and gluten intolerance the same things?

For almost 3 years, since the birth of my 2nd son, I have gotten terriable stomach aches after eating some foods. My stomach gets crampy, I am excessively flatulant, and several other not so pleasant things happen. I'll feel this way for hours or until I go to sleep. Most of the time this happens I have eaten out and the symptoms start within 30 minutes of finnishing the meal. But I can cook the "same " thing at home and I feel fine afterward. Example: I ordered spaghetti for dinner and I got sick, but when I make it at home I am fine! It doesn't make any sense to me!! If anyone can help me with this I would be extreemly grateful! Thanks, Amber

A few vital things I forgot to mention earlier: I am 5'4'' and struggle to weigh 100 lbs., but that is at least partially genetic. I also don't get stomach aches after eating things like cookies, crackers, pretzles, etc...

[MDRB]

Hi,

Firstly I'm sorry to hear that you are not well. To answer your question, celiac disease is a not just a gluten intolerance but a gluten intolerance that causes damage to the lining of the intestine (villi). It is also possible to have a allergic reaction to wheat, barley or any of the grains that contain gluten.

Your symptoms (flatulence etc) do fit with celiac disease.

celiac disease is often bought on after pregnancy, viral illness or emotional stress. So the fact that you became ill after the birth of your child also fits.

You should go see your doctor and ask for some tests, don't just go gluten free as this could backfire with inaccurate test results.

Good luck, I hope you start to feel better soon