New And Super Confused

[Arilou13]

Hi all -

Love this forum. I am just at the start of suspecting serious gluten and or wheat allergy issues. I just have birth last year to twins and since then have begun to piece together a wierd pattern. I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction in how to proceed or at least recognize similar symptoms.

First, I've have always been mega bloated while eating a high carb diet. I've always reported "feeling amazing" and clear headed on a Atkins type program but could never sustain my weight loss. Recently I've noticed my whole mood worsens if I eat pasta, bread or bagels. Its as of I cant keep a clear head - which is tough with twins and a three year old at home.

I developed a strange allergy to the cold - so bad that if I pull out a bag of frozen peas from the freezer my hands are instantly covered in hives. I had to finally come to terms with the fact that I've had diarrhea for four to give months now.

Ive been tested 3 times for parasites because I eat a lot of sushi but all came back negative. And finally I notice that if I eat pasta or bread etc. My stomach becomes massively distended like a pregnant belly. My stomach issues have become horrendous and my only relief is to eat veggies and protein.

But the problem is with the kids and stress I cheat all the time - it's second nature to eat what I make them.

I went to an allergist 2 years ago who laughed off my food concerns - at the time I was in great shape for a 40 year old mom. But I do recall being told as a teenager I had a wheat allergy but my parents did nothing about it and I just kept dieting eating salads and them giving into massive cravings for carbs and sweets - regained it all over and over.

Where should I go now given these symptoms? Should i just go to an allergist or do my symptoms warrant w closer look at celiac disease? My husband knows of a good gastro doctor - what tests should ask for? Any guidance is appreciated - I'm rather short on time and need to take care of my health for the sake of my children.

Thanks in advance

[pricklypear1971]

Hi there!

Well, the rash on your hands from cold may be "cold hives". Open Original Shared Link

If you were diagnosed at a younger age with a wheat problem, your observations about your reactions are probably accurate. I'd find those medical records and see what they say.

There's lots of info on here about dx, testing, etc. If your goal is to have further testing for Celiac, you need to

continue to eat gluten until you have a full Celiac panel and/or endoscopy. T hose old records could save you time, money and misery.

There are plenty of wheat/gluten free sugary, carb-filled alternatives. No need to cheat for a fix.

Good luck!

[Lisa]

Hi all -

Love this forum. I am just at the start of suspecting serious gluten and or wheat allergy issues. I just have birth last year to twins and since then have begun to piece together a wierd pattern. I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction in how to proceed or at least recognize similar symptoms.

First, I've have always been mega bloated while eating a high carb diet. I've always reported "feeling amazing" and clear headed on a Atkins type program but could never sustain my weight loss. Recently I've noticed my whole mood worsens if I eat pasta, bread or bagels. Its as of I cant keep a clear head - which is tough with twins and a three year old at home.

I developed a strange allergy to the cold - so bad that if I pull out a bag of frozen peas from the freezer my hands are instantly covered in hives. I had to finally come to terms with the fact that I've had diarrhea for four to give months now.

Ive been tested 3 times for parasites because I eat a lot of sushi but all came back negative. And finally I notice that if I eat pasta or bread etc. My stomach becomes massively distended like a pregnant belly. My stomach issues have become horrendous and my only relief is to eat veggies and protein.

But the problem is with the kids and stress I cheat all the time - it's second nature to eat what I make them.

I went to an allergist 2 years ago who laughed off my food concerns - at the time I was in great shape for a 40 year old mom. But I do recall being told as a teenager I had a wheat allergy but my parents did nothing about it and I just kept dieting eating salads and them giving into massive cravings for carbs and sweets - regained it all over and over.

Where should I go now given these symptoms? Should i just go to an allergist or do my symptoms warrant w closer look at celiac disease? My husband knows of a good gastro doctor - what tests should ask for? Any guidance is appreciated - I'm rather short on time and need to take care of my health for the sake of my children.

Thanks in advance

Welcome Arilou!

It makes me so angry when I hear of doctors brushing people off. You have found a great place here. Read as much as you can and go into your next doctor's appointment armed with facts and confidence.

Many times Celiac Disease can be "triggered" by birth events, stress, mono or other issues. Your story is not uncommon.

You already know that you have a history of issues with wheat. Whether it has progressed to the point that you have developed Celiac, will have to be determined through testing. Never the less, you either have a gluten allergy, gluten sensitivity or Celiac Disease. All remedied by a total gluten free diet.

Below is some information on testing. But, do not begin a gluten free diet, until all testing is finished. The test results may not be as accurate as you may want.

Open Original Shared Link

A gastro doctor would be more desirable and request a FULL Celiac Serologic Panel.

[Arilou13]

Thanks Lisa and pricklypear1971 for your prompt responses. I am searching around these posts and learning. I am sufficienly concerned. I have known about the cold hives which is called "cold utricaria" but my dr knew nothing about this and just said "that's strange"! I have found a loose association to gluten issues so I know I'm on the right path. But wow wish it wasn't so hard!

Thanks though I appreciate your input greatly

[pricklypear1971]

Thanks Lisa and pricklypear1971 for your prompt responses. I am searching around these posts and learning. I am sufficienly concerned. I have known about the cold hives which is called "cold utricaria" but my dr knew nothing about this and just said "that's strange"! I have found a loose association to gluten issues so I know I'm on the right path. But wow wish it wasn't so hard!

Thanks though I appreciate your input greatly

Hives and skin conditions are linked with autoimmune problems and allergies. You may have luck lessening your hives if you address the underlying problem.

[Lisa]

I have found a loose association to gluten issues so I know I'm on the right path. But wow wish it wasn't so hard!

I would strongly suggest you get tested. Hopefully, your symptoms have not disrupted your life as much as many of us. A diagnosis of a gluten free diet, with no pills, no surgery and only a diet change to regain health again....is something to be grateful about.

Unaddressed Celiac disease can cause some life-threatening issues. Please be proactive and seek testing.