Upper Gi Results

[starrymazed]

So I finally got to speak with the NP who ordered my bloodwork and upper GI today, and she confirmed that my blood tests for giladin? were normal. She said that my upper GI showed something, however, I was driving in my car when she called. From what I gathered, she mentioned maybe something being inflamed near the opening of my stomach, and it started with a "d". I asked her to repeat it, but, again, I was driving. The only thing I can find is duodenum, which is a small protion of the intestine that connects to the stomach. I am not sure that is what she said it was. In any case, I told her that I have been gluten free and how much improvements I have had in the last two weeks. She told me that the blood tests are not always reliable for celiac or wheat intolerance, and a gluten-free diet is sometimes the only way to tell. She said that I should continue eating gluten-free, and then said she would talk to the doctor and get back to me tomorrow to see if they want to biopsy my stomach. I am not sure why, exactly, and now I am kinda more confused. I am greatful, however, to have a doctor who seems more knowledgeable than others with regards to gluten intolerence. Has anyone had a similar experience?

[kim26]

hi!

it sounds to me like they found duodenitis, this means the duodenum is inflamed. sometimes this is just plain ol irritation from GERD, or too many meds like IB profen or motrin. various other irritants. BUT, sometimes its an indication that something else is going on. i was diagnosed with it myself a few years ago after months of trips to the er with severe vomiting and diarrhea and all that good stuff.

anyway, my daughter is a diagnosed celiac and her gi doc says that duodenitis can be an indication on celiac when coupled with other symptoms, i am on the diet with my daughter...and as was predicted by so many on this forum, my IBS, mood, fatigue, and "Duodenitis" symptoms have all gotten better! in spite of my negative blood tests.

i would just talk to your doctor and get as much info as you can! and if the diet makes you feel better i say stick with it!

hope this helps!~K

[kayavara]

My experience is somewhat similar.My blood tests and biopsy were both negative.....but when the nurse called to give me the results...she insisted I stay on this diet for 3 months. She explained that tests can be negative and you still may have celiac or wheat intoerance.My biopsy showed gastric mucosal abnormality characterized by erythema. It seemed to be enough ,along with the bloating,fatigue,headaches and a hosts of other symptoms for my doctor to insist on the diet. I was hesitant without concrete proof...but I started it (a month ago now) and I am a new person. Is it Celiac for sure? Can't say...I just know the old me is back and ready to get back into life . Hope it works out for you too.

Kay

[starrymazed]

Well, the NP called me today and told me that the doctor definitely wants to do a EGD with biopsy for my duodenum. She told me to start eating gluten again, like a serving a day, and to increase it so I am eating a normal (gluten filled) diet two weeks before the procedure (June 5). I hate to start eating gluten again, but I want to know what is going on. In the past two weeks of being gluten free, I have "tested" myself with small amounts of gluten three times, and each time I had side effects ranging from canker sores, to sharp stomach pains, to the mysterious red bumps I get on my arms and thighs. I have two small children, though, and my daughter has had many stomach and behavioral issues for most of her short life (almost 7). So, I am going to go through with it to see if I can get some sort of diagnosis and take it from there with my daughter. As soon as I have the biopsy, I plan on going back to a gluten free diet, without a doubt. I have seen and felt so many improvements in my skin and my stomach in the past two weeks, and I want to stay this way.