Maybe A Stupid Question?

[alexsami]

what is the difference or differences between gluten sensitivity and celiac disease?? how are they diagnosed?? thanks

[shadowicewolf]

no such thing as a stupid question.

Anyway, gluten intolerences are just that: body does not like gluten and will lash out with gut problems.

celiac is similar but much more devistating. Where the intolerences don't harm the gut, celiac will (most notably the intestans). Celiac is also an autoimmune disorder as opposed to being a simple intolerence.

Testing varies. You can have a blood test done to show the amount of antibodies that are produced when your body does not like gluten, you can have genetic testing (but this doesn't always mean you have it, 40% of the population has one gene), you can also have a biopsy (not really reccomended anymore but most GI doctors swear by it), and of course the elimination diet (that is if you improve without having it in your diet then you most likely have an intolerence).

Another note: Intolerences are NOT allergies. There is no histiminal responce.

-jumps off of soap box-

[alexsami]

wow, thanks for the great response....is there anyway you can help me interpret these blood results?

Tissue Transglutaminase antibody

<3 range, <5 negative

Gliadin Antibody (IGA)

16 range, <11 negative

Immunoglobulin A

223 range, 81-463

Please help

Thanks

[alexsami]

general practioner said i had celiac disease and to go gluten free.....this was a month ago.....I am seeing a gastro a week from today and really curious as to what he says!!

[butterfl8]

GI is probably going to want to do an endoscopy, which he/she will want done while you are on a gluten full diet. That will show whether or not your intestines have been damaged. Also provides good incentive for staying gluten free! But in all seriousness, since you have a GI appt., wait for that and see what that dr has to say. He/She might know more than your gen. pract.

-Daisy

[shadowicewolf]

Or... might have none at all and not believe what your GP said.