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  • Jefferson Adams
    Jefferson Adams

    By Jefferson Adams •

    How I Knew I Had Celiac Disease: A Patient Shares Their story

    Reviewed and edited by a celiac disease expert.

    Back in February 2019, Chelsea H. was officially diagnosed with celiac disease, today, she's embraced the gluten-free lifestyle. She and her doctor wrote and article sharing the story of her journey. Here's a rundown.

    How I Knew I Had Celiac Disease: A Patient Shares Their story - Freedom! by The White Wоlf is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.
    Caption:
    Freedom! by The White Wоlf is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.

    Celiac.com 05/03/2024 - In February 2019, a young woman named Chelsea received a life-changing diagnosis: celiac disease. Reflecting on her past, she realized that the signs of this condition had been present even during her high school years.

    Initially, she dismissed feelings of bloating and discomfort after consuming foods like pizza and pasta as the result of indulging in too much junk food. However, as she entered adulthood and began her career, her health began to deteriorate rapidly. The bloating became frequent and painful, accompanied by persistent exhaustion that made it challenging to focus on work.

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     Reluctant to seek medical attention, she eventually consulted a doctor after developing a persistent rash on her arm, a classic sign of celiac disease. The doctor suspected irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) but decided to conduct comprehensive blood tests, including one for celiac disease.

    Upon receiving a positive test result for the tTG IgA antibody, indicating her immune system's reaction to gluten ingestion, the young woman experienced a mix of relief and dread. While relieved to have an explanation for her symptoms, she struggled with the idea of giving up her favorite foods.

    A Strict Gluten-Free Diet for Life

    Her treatment journey involved consultations with a gastroenterologist and adhering to a strict gluten-free diet for life. This dietary overhaul meant not only eliminating obvious sources of gluten but also being vigilant about hidden sources in sauces and seasonings.

    Supported by a dietitian, she gradually adapted to her new lifestyle, learning to read labels, explore gluten-free recipes, and advocate for her dietary needs in social settings. Despite occasional challenges, she found empowerment in managing her condition and cherishing the support of her partner, who joined her in adopting a gluten-free diet.

    Today, she embraces her life with celiac disease, prioritizing her well-being and enjoying newfound vitality.

    Read more about Chelsea's story at msn.com
     

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  • About Me

    Jefferson Adams

    Jefferson Adams is Celiac.com's senior writer and Digital Content Director. He earned his B.A. and M.F.A. at Arizona State University. His articles, essays, poems, stories and book reviews have appeared in numerous magazines, journals, and websites, including North American Project, Antioch Review, Caliban, Mississippi Review, Slate, and more. He is the author of more than 2,500 articles on celiac disease. His university coursework includes studies in science, scientific methodology, biology, anatomy, physiology, medicine, logic, and advanced research. He previously devised health and medical content for Colgate, Dove, Pfizer, Sharecare, Walgreens, and more. Jefferson has spoken about celiac disease to the media, including an appearance on the KQED radio show Forum, and is the editor of numerous books, including "Cereal Killers" by Scott Adams and Ron Hoggan, Ed.D.

    >VIEW ALL ARTICLES BY JEFFERSON ADAMS

     

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