Coeliac Symptoms

Coeliac symptoms are varied and can include:

Bloating
Diarrhoea
Wind
Constipation
Tiredness
Anaemia
Mouth Ulcers
Headaches
Sudden or unexpected weight loss
Hair Loss
Skin Rash (Dermatitis herpetiformis)
. Osteoporosis
Depression
Infertility
Recurrent Miscarriage
Joint / Bone pain.

Coeliac symptoms can often be misdiagnosed or confused with the Symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or even a wheat allergy/intolerance sometimes even diagnosed as stress related.

It was previously thought that coeliac sufferers were expected to be underweight however most sufferers are of a normal weight or even overweight.

To accurately diagnose coeliac you will first need a specific blood test (It is vital that you continue to eat gluten for 6 weeks prior to this blood test.)
Once you have the results of you blood test whether it be positive or negative you may require an endoscopy to clarify diagnosis.

(The blood test will check for tissue transglutaminase antibodies (TGA) and /or endomysial antibodies (EMA). A negative result does not mean that you do not have coeliac you may need further tests.)

SO.... if you are concerned you have coeliac disease and have not already been diagnosed CONTINUE TO EAT GLUTEN and make an appointment to see your GP to discuss your concerns and symptoms as soon as possible to receive the relevant steps to a diagnosis.

ENDOSCOPY - (Biopsy of the gut) this involves a passing a small flexible tube, known as an endoscope, orally down into the small intestine. (This can be done using a local anaesthetic on the throat or/and a sedative). Small samples of your gut lining are collected (Biopsy) and checked to cross reference the damage typically caused by coeliac.