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Follow-up Blood Work Results


heatherjane

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heatherjane Contributor

I was diagnosed with celiac in January and have been gluten-free ever since. (My original numbers were all way over 100, but I don't know specifics.) Last week, I had my antibodies retested. My doctor himself called me this afternoon and left a lenghthy voicemail about my progress. My numbers are down 75%, and I am elated to hear this news because of my high numbers at time of diagnosis, and because I've had some lingering bowel issues that have made me wonder if I was getting better at all.

Because I have "only" improved 75%, my doctor also insinuated that I have not fully grasped the diet and needed to work at it a little harder. He also said, though, that it's a possibility that I could have lymphocytic colitis as well - which could account for the frequent (unproductive) BMs with their varying consistencies (but no diarrhea). If that's the case, then he's going to put me on some kind of medication. (He's calling me back on Monday so we can discuss all of this further.)

I honestly can't imagine where I'm getting any gluten. I rarely, RARELY eat out, and the few processed foods I eat are ones that have been confirmed gluten free. (I'm going to try to eliminate them altogether and see if that helps.) Beauty products, soap, shampoo, medications, vitamins...all gluten free. I live alone, so there's no risk of a contaminated kitchen. Kissing is definitely not an issue. It's possible, I suppose, that I could be getting it at work somehow through handsoap, or surfaces in the breakroom (which I enter only when necessary). I'm paranoid of any stray crumb when I can't identify the source.

I'm inclined to think that my improvement is just slower than normal. I'm scheduled for a repeat EGD/colonoscopy on Oct 7th, so we'll know how the villi are doing at that time. I was just wondering what you guys think about it, since I know a lot of people in this forum seem to have a wealth of knowledge. I would appreciate your thoughts. :)


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      I can see why she’s worried, especially with a history of ovarian cysts, but it’s also very common for healing after a celiac diagnosis to take time. Even when someone is doing their best gluten-free, it can take months for inflammation to calm down, and bloating, abdominal pressure, and even back discomfort can flare during the adjustment period. The upcoming dietitian visit is a great step, since hidden gluten exposure or nutritional gaps can sometimes contribute to ongoing symptoms. That said, if the pain is persistent, worsening, or feels similar to her prior cyst symptoms, it’s reasonable to mention that to her doctor for peace of mind. It’s not uncommon for multiple things to overlap, so checking both GI and gynecologic angles can help rule things out and reduce anxiety while her body continues healing. Many people with celiac disease, especially those who are in the 0-2 year range of their recovery, have additional food intolerance issues which could be temporary. To figure this out you may need to keep a food diary and do an elimination diet over a few months. Some common food intolerance issues are dairy/casein, eggs, corn, oats, and soy. The good news is that after your gut heals (for most people who are 100% gluten-free this will take several months to two years) you may be able to slowly add some these items back into your diet after the damaged villi heal.    
    • Scott Adams
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