Greetings. I had pretty significant "gluten ataxia" (from what I understand the antibodies that attack the small intestine also attack specific type of cells in the cerebellum - I'm not a medical person, I'm sure you can google this and get some info). I was not diagnosed with Celiac Disease until in my 50s. Among other problems, my ataxia indeed affected my balance and gait -- my Dr. suspected MS (terrifying!) and I was sent for an MRI. Thankfully that was negative, but I relay that to illustrate how significant the symptoms were. Shortly thereafter I was diagnosed as Celiac, and I would say the 3-6 month mark is pretty much where my improvement happened. I remember reading at the time that "neuro" problems take longer to resolve, once you are on a gluten free diet. I am thrilled to say that ALL of my neuro problems were completely gone in 6 months. I hope this is the case with your son. I have had no relapse, except if I get significantly "glutened" I'll be wobbly and/or dizzy next day or two thereafter. Best wishes for your son's recovery.
Gluten Ataxia
in jldurrani's Blog
A blog by jldurrani in General
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Greetings. I had pretty significant "gluten ataxia" (from what I understand the antibodies that attack the small intestine also attack specific type of cells in the cerebellum - I'm not a medical person, I'm sure you can google this and get some info). I was not diagnosed with Celiac Disease until in my 50s. Among other problems, my ataxia indeed affected my balance and gait -- my Dr. suspected MS (terrifying!) and I was sent for an MRI. Thankfully that was negative, but I relay that to illustrate how significant the symptoms were. Shortly thereafter I was diagnosed as Celiac, and I would say the 3-6 month mark is pretty much where my improvement happened. I remember reading at the time that "neuro" problems take longer to resolve, once you are on a gluten free diet. I am thrilled to say that ALL of my neuro problems were completely gone in 6 months. I hope this is the case with your son. I have had no relapse, except if I get significantly "glutened" I'll be wobbly and/or dizzy next day or two thereafter. Best wishes for your son's recovery.