Waiting Forever For Test Results

[gfr123]

Hi,

I have had terrible, debilitating stomach problems for a couple of years now. I've had loads of blood tests. One turned up that i have Pernicious Anaemia, and the doc said I would feel fine once I started B12 shots and Folic Acid pills. I've been getting steadily worse - both stomach related and general health.

Eventually my doc referred me to the GI unit at the local hospital. I had blood tests taken - for what I don't know. Brittish health care may be free, but it's not the best. I waited at least two months for the blood results, and actually never got them - but I did get called in for an endoscopy. I wasn't worried until I was informed, once I had the tube down my throat, that they were taking a biospy. It's hard to ask questions under these circumstances. I went to my doctor for my results - surprise surprise - they weren't in. I did manage to find out there was an anti-body for celiac found in my blood terst. Should I assume I have celiac disease until the doctors finally get their act together, or is there a good chance I don't have it?

All I know is that I feel really ill, and also have a blistering rash which could be that DH.

Any advice on how to cope with the uncertainty would be really great. I can't get my head round going gluten free until I have a diagnosos. I don't know how I'll manage even if I do have it - also if I don't have celiac, what else could they be analysing a biopsy for?

Hope that wasn't too rambling - thanks in advance for any advice or help.

G

[lauradawn]

HI,

Sorry to hear you have to wait so long. It's so hard not knowing. however, if you have already had the blood work done, and you have had the biopsy done, there is no harm in strating the gluten-free diet and seeing if you notice any difference. You may know before the Dr gets back to you just based on your symptoms. I notice improvements within about a week after going gluten-free. youmay be suprised how well you will feel.

Hope all goes well

Laura

[gf4life]

They should have told you ahead of time that they might be taking a biopsy. This would have been less stressful for you. I was asleep for my endoscopy, so I wouldn't have known anyhow, but the first time the doctor did not biopsy, and the second time I made sure she was going to biopsy.

If your blood test was positive for antibodies and you already had the biopsy done, then Laura is right, you should try the diet. It won't hurt you, and it may just be the answer to all your problems. It is not easy, but you could just tell yourself that you are just going to try it for a week or two and then it won't feel too bad. If you feel better then it will be easier to stick with it.

I would also try calling the doctor everyday for the results. Eventually they will have to give them to you. Sometimes the results are there, but until the doctor looks at them they just keep telling you that they don't have them yet. So bugging them daily may just put enough pressure on the doc to look at the tests. Good luck.

Looking forward to hearing the results or whether you are going to try the diet or not.

God bless,

Mariann