New Celiac, Seeking Good Md In Orange County, Ca. Please Help.

[Lindaa]

Hi Everyone,

I am 23 and have been somewhat diagnosed by my family Dr for Celiac Disease. After describing my symptoms to him, he told me that I have celiac disease. But when asked if there were any medical tests and measures I should take, he said that they were not necessary & that a lifetime gluten free diet was the only way to go.

After doing some research online and seeing all the symptoms that I've endured for SOO long ( stomach pains, bowel problems, weight loss, mouth sores, depression, constant fatigue etc), I am certain I am a Celiac.

I want a more knowledgeable & concerned Dr and was wondering if there were any recommendations anyone could make. And what tests should I take? Will seeing a GI specialist be necessary as well? I want to be able to see this through the right way.

thank you in advance for your help.

-Linda

[Lisa]

Hi Everyone,

I am 23 and have been somewhat diagnosed by my family Dr for Celiac Disease. After describing my symptoms to him, he told me that I have celiac disease. But when asked if there were any medical tests and measures I should take, he said that they were not necessary & that a lifetime gluten free diet was the only way to go.

After doing some research online and seeing all the symptoms that I've endured for SOO long ( stomach pains, bowel problems, weight loss, mouth sores, depression, constant fatigue etc), I am certain I am a Celiac.

I want a more knowledgeable & concerned Dr and was wondering if there were any recommendations anyone could make. And what tests should I take? Will seeing a GI specialist be necessary as well? I want to be able to see this through the right way.

thank you in advance for your help.

-Linda

Welcome LInda,

Celiac can be diagnosed by a Serologic Panel, Endoscopy/biopsy and Positive Dietary Response. And for some with a rash confirming Dermatitus Herpetiformis, a skin condition.

Anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA) both IgA and IgG

Anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA) - IgA

Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG) - IgA

Total IgA level.

It would not be too much effort for your doctor to order these blood tests. If your current doctor will not order this test, I would recommend that you find one that will.

Anyone with a history of intestinal discomfort should be tested for a variety of concerns. Your symtoms are some associated with Celiac or a gluten intolerance. I would continue to eat gluten and pursue further testing.

Some people here have chosen to self-diagnose based on a positive dietary response.

Good luck to you.

[Julia's mom]

Although we don't know an experienced Celiac physician in Orange County, please let us know what you find out. Without elaboration, my husband has been on and off hospitalized for 6 years until his physician (good friend) just cut our wheat and meat and see what happens. He had a positive response within 2 weeks! We haven't been to the hospital in over a year and with the recent diagnosis of our 5 year with Celiac, we are positive without a doubt that he has it as well. Stay vigilant. Our doctor is Jesus (Chuy) Valadez-Herrera in Laguna Hills. Harvard/UCLA and living our reality!

[Lindaa]

Momma Goose-Thank you for your informative & quick response!

I will definitely request those tests from my next MD.

Julias Mom- I will keep you posted on who I find