Is It Too Late To For Diagnosis?

[woken]

Almost every season for the past 5 years, i've had chronic constipation, where all bowel movement stopped and a week's worth of food would build up. Just recently I realized that before every incident I had eaten pizza dough or bagels.

A few days ago I removed gluten from my diet and a week's worth of food came out with all symptoms gone: frozen bowel, bloated food buildup, unable to pass gas, aching joints, high body temperature, dehydration, clogged sinuses, lethargy, constantly tired, and scaly red rash on face.

How long would I have to go back on gluten for it to show up on a blood test, and should I get an official diagnosis if the only official treatment is to classify me as high risk on future insurance applications?

[ShayFL]

If you have only been off gluten for 2 days.....you can eat it again now and go get the tests. 2 days should not affect the tests. Having an "official" dx is important to some. For others, getting healthy is all that matters. It is up to you which way you want to go.

I had the blood tests and they came back negative. I passed on a biopsy. I tried the diet instead and it has helped me a lot.

[HeyItsA]

Almost every season for the past 5 years, i've had chronic constipation, where all bowel movement stopped and a week's worth of food would build up. Just recently I realized that before every incident I had eaten pizza dough or bagels.

A few days ago I removed gluten from my diet and a week's worth of food came out with all symptoms gone: frozen bowel, bloated food buildup, unable to pass gas, aching joints, high body temperature, dehydration, clogged sinuses, lethargy, constantly tired, and scaly red rash on face.

How long would I have to go back on gluten for it to show up on a blood test, and should I get an official diagnosis if the only official treatment is to classify me as high risk on future insurance applications?

Hey woken!

I am not to far into this gluten-free diet, but I had some of the same symptoms as you, except for the sinuses and rash. I always felt that way especially after a pasta or pizza meal ( of course, now my old favorites and pretty much BREAD

I went to my Dr. because I couldnt take the pain another second and didnt have a clue how to get rid of it. He told me that instead of $$$ spent on testing to try a gluten-free diet and see what happens. I did and feel wonderful. Of course, there are still days (quite a few) that I feel bad, but that will pass. It has been almost 3 weeks now...

I think that a doctor visit may/should be done because of anything else that may be present. Just a thought.

I hope that you are feeling better.

Oh and SlayFL - I have heeded your advice and ruled out dairy for now - and I havent had any stomach or back issues for 2 days !! WOOHOO

Amanda