50 Days Gluten-Free, But Problems Remain

[aly25]

Hi, I am IgA deficient and exhibit symptoms of diarehha, fatigue, tension headaches, and mental fog. I have gone on a gluten-free diet prior to a biopsy and consultation with a GI and am now on day 50. Although I have noticed that my scent has changed (improved somewhat), and that my ability to breath through my nasal passage has ameloriated: I have not experienced the shock and awe of getting well. My bowel movements are still unsatisfactory, etc. I should note that my blood tests are normal, except that I am IgA deficient and have a high IgG count. A colonoscopy was negative for Crohn's, and I do not have blood in my stools. I am planning to continue the gluten-free diet for months to come, yet I am wondering what timeline folks had prior to getting better, or at least when was significant improvement noticed. I recognize that recovery proceeds on a case by case basis, but is there an average time? For example, did folks go two months without noticing much of a change and then improvement was noted by months three and four?

Thanks.

[ravenwoodglass]

Have you eliminated dairy? We often need to until we heal. What are you eating? It is best to go with whole naturally gluten free foods at first. It can take some time to heal but gut issues should be improving at least a bit by now. Have you made sure your home is as gluten safe as possible? New toaster, replacing colander, not sharing condiments etc? Have you checked all OTC drugs, scripts and supplements? If not check those with the maker. Also since you are still symptomatic be sure to check your shampoos, toiletries, makeup etc.

[starrytrekchic]

I had some immediate relief in symptoms--then it was back and forth for several months, gradually trending for better. New symptoms cropped up, though--around the 2-3 months mark I was exhausted for several weeks. I'd say it took about 4 months for things to really straighten out--but things were noticeably better from the very beginning.

Everyone's healing rate is different though. If I were you, I'd keep at it for six months, at least.

[aly25]

Hi, thanks for the responses. Raven I will make a thorough checking of everything. Starry, I shall certain pursue gluten-free for six months or more, but was hoping to find inspiration here regarding the timeline thus far. I guess I shall require patience.

[ravenwoodglass]

Hi, thanks for the responses. Raven I will make a thorough checking of everything. Starry, I shall certain pursue gluten-free for six months or more, but was hoping to find inspiration here regarding the timeline thus far. I guess I shall require patience.

The timeline can vary from person to person. It can also vary system by system. Some will see gut relief fairly soon but take longer to have neuro or bone and joint issues resolve. My migraines were gone within a week and gut symptoms soon after but the other issues took much longer to resolve. Some have gut issues stop almost immediately and with others it can take a month or two. Be as strict as you can and try to avoid the most common cointolerances like the dairy and soy if you are not already.

Hope you heal soon.