Need Celiac Specialist In Detroit(mi) Or Question Answered By Dr.

[Froger850]

So.... Before a GI Dr. finally diagnosed me with Celiacs, my family Dr. sent me for a HIDA scan to check the contractions of my gall bladder as she felt this was the cause of my horrible pains, gas, boating etc. She also sent me for a scope to check for ulcers, acid reflux etc. The HIDA scan determined that my gall bladder is only working at 30% and you sould be 60% so she wanted me to see a surgeon. Well, in between the results of the HIDA scan and meeting with the surgeon, I had the scope done. The scope revealed nothing immediately. I met with the surgeon and he advised we take out my gall bladder as there is no other apparent reason for the pains but this. Just shortly after this, my GI Dr. called and said that I have Celiacs and does not feel removing my gall bladder will help. The results from my scope were sent to the surgeon and I am still on for surgery. The surgeon is going to reevalute in a few weeks as I'm not scheduled for the surgery until August 19th. I have been reading online that Celiacs Disease causes gall bladder malfunction and most gall bladders are removed prematurely and before being checked for Celiacs. I have not found anything that talks about the gall bladder being removed after being diagnosed with Celiacs. Of course, it's possible that the surgeon will change his mind and not proceed, but if he does I have one Dr. who thinks it should come out and one who thinks it shouldn't. I want to be prepared to get a 3rd opinion if I have to, but since they will call me only a few weeks before surgery I want to have some stuff lined up and be better educated about this whole situation. It seems most Dr.'s are really not familiar with Celiacs and I'm a little leary about trusting either one. Between the GI Dr, my family Dr. and the Surgeon, I'm totally confused. All I know is to be gluten free. Can anyone provide any suggestions or know of any Dr.'s in the Detroit area (maybe I'll travel if I have to) that can clear this up for me. I would sincerely appreciate it. GO RED WINGS!!!!! Sorry, had to throw that in.

[CeliBelli]

So....Between the GI Dr, my family Dr. and the Surgeon, I'm totally confused. All I know is to be gluten free. Can anyone provide any suggestions or know of any Dr.'s in the Detroit area (maybe I'll travel if I have to) that can clear this up for me. I would sincerely appreciate it. GO RED WINGS!!!!! Sorry, had to throw that in.

I'm not a doctor, nor do I play one on TV. But I've also just been diagnosed in December, and am dealing with an array of Celiac-related problems. I am amazed daily at how delicate our body chemistry is, and how very badly messed up it can get from this disease.

If I were in your position, I would try treatment for Celiac Disease for several months before having surgery. You may find that not only does the abdominal pain resolve, but the gallbladder function may resolve as well. It may take some time, because healing your gut and reestablishing nutrient absorption takes time, but you might be pleasantly surprised how quickly your body can jump start some things.

[AMQmom]

My children see a GI (pediatric, but he may be able to talk to you) in Rochester. You can check him out online on FOXDetroitNews (or whatever their online link is). He is interviewed and I have seen it online. Check under gluten-free or celiac when searching their site. He is VERY knowledgeable with celiac. His name is Belknap. I believe he is the largest pediatric GI within these three counties. Pediatric Digestive Care is his clinic on Dequindre. I would suggest asking if you could speak to him on the phone and explain your situation. He can lead you to who you need to talk to.